Do you feel stuck in a career rut? It’s easy to feel as though you are just marking time in a job. If you want to get out of that career rut, you need a plan to take things to the next level. If you are ready to take your career to the next level in the coming year, here are some ideas:
Ask for More Responsibility
If your work has become too boring, now might be a good time to ask for more responsibility. If you want to be noticed, you need to step up. Not only can asking for more responsibility help you learn new skills, and bring you to the attention of your superiors, but it can also provide you with just the career challenge you have been looking for.
New responsibility can help you improve your skills and can even result in higher compensation. If you want to level up in your career, try taking on a little more responsibility. As your capability grows, so, too, will your career success.
Network
One of the best career goals for a new year is to network. Who you know really does matter. Make it a point to network a little bit. You can strike up professional relationships with people in your company outside of your department. It’s also possible to network beyond your company. Attend local Chamber of Commerce events and local business events to get to know people from other companies. You can even expand your reach by networking online, as well as attending conferences and trade shows. The right networking skills can help you with a good reference or recommendation, as well as ensure that you are “in the loop” when openings are available at other companies.
Start a Side Hustle
If you approach your side hustle the right way, it’s possible for you to boost your career at the same time. First of all, a side hustle can turn into a full-fledged business if you take the right steps. If you don’t like your current career trajectory, make it a point to start a side hustle that you can use as a jumping-off point for creating your dream career.
Even if you don’t abandon your traditional job for your own business, you can still benefit from a side hustle. The skills you develop when you are involved with a side hustle can be valuable in your traditional job. Developing soft skills, and learning more about business, can translate into your every day work and help you take your career to the next level.
Look for Meaning in What You Do
Sometimes, all you need to do in order to get out of a career rut is to look for meaning in what you do. Try to focus on the good that you do at work, and that your company does for others. If you can find meaning in what you do, it will be easier to approach your work with better morale. You’ll perform better, be a better team member, and be able to bring your career to a better level.