Are you back at full capacity? This is a great time of year to do lots of those annoying little things like updating your resume and LinkedIn profile. I like to set the beginning of the year for those tasks because it’s easy to remember, and because things are still getting settled after the holidays so it feels like there’s a little more time for things like that.
If you’re updating, start with a list of your accomplishments. You may need to look back over your calendar from last year, noting big projects you undertook or deadlines you met. If you’re struggling to identify things, start small and look back at December. Note anything that seems worth attention and write it down. Some of what you start with won’t necessarily make it to the final list, so write whatever you think of. A lot of this stuff at the beginning is just getting into a habit of mind, so some of your first thoughts will be less impactful.
Think about things you’ve been praised for recently. Think about measurable successes—raises, bonuses, increased performance metrics. These are great to list on your documents, of course, but they’re also good talking points when it comes time to ask for a promotion, so get in the habit of keeping a record of them. I like to do this in the old-fashioned pen-and-paper way, but whatever works for you is fine. (Just be wary of doing things on your work computer if it’s actually company property, because when you leave your job, you will have to remember to transfer those personal files so you still have them.)
Some people like to add a vision board to this process, as well. If you want to create one, pay attention to what motivates you, rather than what other people tell you the board should have. Your emotions and motivations are what count here! Then note the specifics: there particular goals you have for the year? How will you measure your progress towards those? How will you know when you’ve succeeded? Make space somewhere so you can keep track.
And while you’re at it, why not set a reminder for next year? Add it to your January calendar so it’s fresh in your mind to keep track of those goals and accomplishments. And, of course, celebrate your wins!
