If you’ve been around here for any time, you’ll know I’m all about efficiency. Effectively doing things to maximize time and result. Today, I want to help you increase these results through 20 powerful tools that will transform your career forever.
You don’t need to do them all cause this would be a stretch. But focus on one or two at a time. Adjust what you’re doing and implement them into your day.
Using these habits daily will most definitely have the power to transform the work you do. Get you raises, promotions, and an all-out better work-life experience.
So enough talking. Let’s get right into the habits.
Yes, this is a habit. You have the power to create whatever life you desire. I believe this deep in my core. But you need to believe it for yourself. Having a strong mental mindset is at the top of these habits.
We all have experienced a friend that is constantly late (or maybe you’re that friend). Showing up late is not acceptable. Whether it’s going to work or out with friends for dinner, be on time for everything you do. It shows respect to the other parties and respect for yourself.
Being proactive means taking action regarding problems or issues. You act early and in advance. There is no room for procrastination in the workplace. Do it early and be prepared.
Your attitude is CRITICAL to how successful you are in your job. I’ve always put people’s attitudes before many other skills or qualities, especially in the workplace. People that show up with a good attitude and a willingness to learn will always move up.
Don’t be a know it. Always be open to learning new ways, applying new ways of doing things, and seeing things differently. There are multiple ways of doing something to get the same result. Be open, and explore. Be wary of speaking these dangerous words “I know.”
Problem solvers genuinely make the world go round from entrepreneurs, CEOs, or others crushing it in their workplace. People who solve problems get raises, get noticed and are rewarded for it. Always be on the look for how to solve something.
No one likes to be rushed. It puts unnecessary pressure on you, which leads to excuses and poor decisions. Know how to manage your time. Leave early and arrive on time. Manage different projects with a good insight into managing your time.
Always, always, always have a target in sight. Know where you want to go in your job. It could be to get to a certain title, to make a certain income, or sell so many products/services. Without a target, you are comfortable and simply drifting through your job—a dangerous place.
You will encounter pressure and hard decisions throughout your various careers. I’ve found it extremely important always to be true to yourself and your values. Say no if asked to go ahead with something you do not believe in. It’s hard in this situation, but you will thank yourself later. There’s no reason to sell yourself short.
I see so many people settling for what the norm is. What everyone else is making, and what the average schedule is. Know the value you bring to the company, the department, and the organization. Ask for what you’re worth, the schedule, the income, and the time.
I’ve asked for multiple raises in many different jobs. I’ve been granted all but one. Many wait for the company to reach out for an annual review and raise their income. If you’re already going above and beyond, delivering exceptional value to the company, ask for more. Don’t forget to be clear about how you’re providing the company more, not the other way around.
Fear is real, scary, and paralyzing. Unfortunately, fear usually wins. Taking risks is critical to bigger and better work opportunities: new jobs, more money, and a better life. People who take risks come out on top. Calculate the risk versus the reward. Go for it.
Many people think they know their priorities but have no clue. If I asked you to write down your top 3 priorities, could you without thinking about it? Know what is most important to you in life - prioritize it.
You must be willing to invest in yourself to learn, grow, and progress in work and life. You could enroll in courses, training, coaching, books, resources, and more. People who invest in themselves get more out of everything. You are significant; investing in you is the only way to improve.
From where you live, your bedroom, office, and kitchen are set up. It all reflects who you are and the person you become. Is it aligned with what you see? Are you living up to your standards? Create an environment that inspires, motivates, and helps you take action daily.
Scheduling your days, weeks, and months is necessary. Winging it has never worked and never will work. Knowing what you’re doing when is important. Your work schedule is one thing, but having the time and a plan laid out for your life needs to happen.
The top 5 people you associate with greatly impact your life. How much money you make, your attitude, and shaping your beliefs. Take a look right now and write down who these 5 people are. Are they serving you to go in the direction you want? You may need to limit time with some of them or eliminate others.
Let go of perfectionism. I’ve seen it cripple people for years. You are waiting for the “perfect time” to change, transition, or decide. Don’t worry about perfect. It doesn’t exist. Go for it with the belief you will make it happen. That’s all you can control.
I know it’s hard not to be caught up in the chaos of life and all of the external forces. But this isn’t helping anyone - especially you. Focus on what you can control, time, spending, and skills. If you can stay in your lane for a year plus, you will be shocked at how much you can achieve.
Life and work are serious, but it doesn’t always have to be. Don’t forget to have fun, smile, laugh, and be yourself. Life’s too short to delay happiness. Express gratitude every day for 3 things in your life. They don’t need to be substantial. Simple everyday things. This one habit will change your life forever.
Well, there you have 20 tools that will transform your career forever! Which one will you focus on first?
If you want to build your dream career, you must start building tools like this in your everyday life. A transformation will take time, but it is worth it.
I’ve used all of these tools in my life to create the career of my dreams. I am working for myself and helping others to follow their passion.
It’s a 25-minute pre-recorded webinar to make jumping between careers not so scary and doable. You’ll learn 3 simple techniques I’ve used to change careers.
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.