If working on your own, building the life of your dreams, and moving your career forward is on your mind—you know that getting ahead is up to you.
Years ago, I worked with Sandy, a personal trainer. This woman was unbelievably fit. She is the mother of 4 children, with an awesome physique and unwavering commitment.
While training with her, Sandy’s favorite phrase was: “If it is to be, it’s up to me.”
Ultimately, it is up to you to make the changes you want to see in your life.
I know. It’s not pretty, fun, or magical. It’s hard work. But, it is the only way forward.
Here are some of the best ways to beat the blues and get ahead in your career.
Ditch Sloth
Whether you’re thinking about lifestyle changes like getting in shape, eating healthy foods, creating your own business, or getting a dream job, you need to be focused.
All the focus in the world won’t do you any good without action. This is why it’s time to ditch sloth. Forget about feeling that being lazy is desirable.
Tip: For one week, track the hours you’re spending doing nothing. Sometimes seeing all those minutes and hours add up can be just the motivation you need to get into gear.
Abandon Self Pity
You’ve got it rough. Things haven’t turned out the way you planned. Someone, maybe a friend, parent, or teacher sold you that success would be easier, faster, and more no-brainer than it turned out to be.
Life is brutal sometimes. But, you can make headway—if you abandon the habit of self-pity. It’s really not going to get you where you want to go.
Tip: For one week, record how much time you’re feeling sorry for yourself. At the end of the week—look at your results. Is there really not a better way to spend your time?
Question Authority
We often don’t question our own thoughts. Habitual thinking has a nasty habit of taking on the tone of an inner authority. This is called negative thinking—and it can seem realistic—until you challenge it.
Tip: For one week, record your thoughts. After a week, examine these authoritative statements. Challenge negative judgmental thoughts, “Is it true? Is it really, really true?”
Question Negative Actions
While we’re living on our own as adults, we often start some negative habits and actions. It makes sense. We may have grown up in a very buttoned down household with lots of rules. We may want to stretch our wings and rebel.
But, after a dose of rebellion has taken place…it’s worth asking some questions.
Did drinking last night really make me feel great this morning?
Did that shopping spree still feel wonderful when you got the credit card bill?
Did paying high interest on lingering debt feel great when you saw the damage?
Tip: Question your actions for one week. Do this gradually, examining your finances, lifestyle, and career moves, one section at a time.
Embrace Learning
We don’t always know everything we need to. As students in high school or college, we knew this intimately. That’s why going to a new class, learning a new subject, or working with a tutor was so exciting.
It’s not too late to take advantage of learning. If you’re working in an organization, check out employee training offerings. You may find that skills you want to build are already offered—as part of your work package.
Tip: Talk with your manager or supervisor. Find out what training is offered as part of your package.
Put What You Learn Into Action
Naturally, learning is only going to help you if you use it. That’s the awesome thing about action. While you’re learning new skills, you put them into practice. This is a proven way to move ahead in your career and in your life.
Tip: Make an action plan to apply what you’re learning. Use your plan to feel confident, happy, organized, and successful in your life.
Sum Up
If you’re looking for ways to beat the blues and move forward in your career, you’ve got a plan of action. As you move forward, remember, “if it is to be, it’s up to me.” Looking forward to seeing you at the top!
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