It’s Time to Set 2021 Career Goals

As we enter a new year, it’s a great time to reflect and plan for the year ahead. The simple act of setting goals will help motivate you throughout the year, give you a sense of accomplishment when completed, and help you maintain your focus. Here are some tips to help you set 2021 career goals.

Reflect on 2020

First, Take time to reflect on 2020. Examine how the year has gone, what you’ve achieved over the last 12 months, and how you have advanced (or not) in your career plan.  Consider what you’ve learned over the past year, what objectives you’ve met, any new responsibilities you’ve taken on, skills you’ve developed, and any feedback you’ve received this past year. Try to be as honest and realistic with yourself as you reflect on the past year.

Consider your Career Path

Next, ask yourself if you on the right career path? Are you positioned well to meet your long term career plans? Have your career plans changed over the past year? Is your career in alignment with your passions? Make sure that your career is on path for where you ultimately want to end up, and that you’re on the right trail to success and happiness in your career. Think about both long-term and short term goals, and make sure that you’re headed in the right direction to achieve them!

Develop a Plan

Now that you’ve considered where you’ve been and where you want to be, come up with a plan! What are the next steps that you need to take to achieve your goals? Set objectives for yourself with deadlines. Consider if you need to enroll in a class, or develop any of your skills to achieve what you want to accomplish. Make sure that you are taking all the right steps to achieve your goals.

Hold yourself Accountable

It’s easy to get distracted, discouraged, or unmotivated, and lose sight of what you’re working toward. To stay on track, you will need to hold yourself accountable. You could ask a mentor or friend to help you with this by following up with you regularly to ensure you’re on track. Or, you could set calendar reminders for yourself to track your personal deadlines to keep you on path.