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Last Updated on October 30, 2019 by Work In My Pajamas
If you’re like most other professionals in the United States, you’re probably working a 9 to 5 at a company in your preferred industry.
But, there’s nothing wrong with this lifestyle! In fact, even entrepreneurs can benefit from a traditional work schedule.
It’s important, however, to set goals for yourself at your job so that you can continue to feel fulfilled about your role as a professional.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about creating authentic work goals.
In This Post:
Define Personal ‘Success’
Most of us get caught up in equating success to how much money you make.
We often think of our friends who are lawyers, doctors, or businessmen as more ‘successful’ than us. This is true if you define being successful as crossing a certain income threshold each year.
But, success isn’t limited to monetary gain. It could be having the opportunity to work less and spend more time with your family, travel frequently, etc.
So, think of what it means to you to be successful. This will instantly give you a goal to strive for.
Defining your objectives and key results (OKRs) is crucial in getting where you want to be.
Contemplate What You’re Willing to Do
Be realistic with yourself on how far you’re willing to go to reach your goal.
Are you willing to work more to stand out among your coworkers? Are you willing to take on (and learn) new roles that you might not have the skills for at the moment?
Don’t set a goal for yourself that you know you won’t work to achieve. If you don’t want to get to the office early and stay late, that’s fine– you don’t have to.
Instead, think of what you have the drive and mental energy to pursue at work over the next few months (a raise, promotion, a role with fewer hours, etc.) and chase after it.
Are You Doing it For You, or Everyone Else?
As previously mentioned, money is often used to define someone’s self-worth.
While money will always be important since you need it to survive, it’s also used as a way to prove oneself to their peers.
If your personal goals don’t align with the expectations of people you know, that’s perfectly fine. As long as they align with what you want for yourself in your career, you’re on the right path.
Working for someone else is understandable. Living for someone else is often an issue.
So, at the end of the day, make sure you’re striving toward something you actually want.
Setting Appropriate Work Goals Can Seem Difficult
But it doesn’t have to be.
With the above information about making work goals in mind, you’ll be well on your way to getting the most out of your job (and your journey as a professional).
Want to learn more about how to better your work life? This article has plenty of useful information.
