It’s not easy to get to the top of your game. Here’s Pride’s top 5 tips on how to do just that and make it work for you.
Define your own success
Create your own definition of success and know what it means to you – whether that’s becoming a manager of your department or becoming the MD of the whole firm. You are the only person in charge of achieving your definition of success so make sure it’s something that you really want and are passionate about. Also be prepared for it to change with time as life deals you those little bumps in the road. Be flexible but stick to your goals.
Be prepared to be misunderstood
Not everyone will get your idea of success or why you want to get to where you want to. The key is not to judge your own success by measuring it against other people’s. Of course some people will give you great advice and they are the type of people you want around you. Others will just give you white noise – it’s best to tune them out and keep your eyes on the prize.
Grab opportunities with both hands – and make them too
Opportunities to get to the top of your game will present themselves all the time – make sure you’re in a position to grab them with both hands and get ahead. You also have to make your own opportunities. Networking is key, whether that’s in your own circle or widening out to include people you never thought would be beneficial to you. Training and education are also the best way to keep your skills sharp and stay ahead of the game.
Money, money, money…
…shouldn’t be the focus of why you do what you do. Yes, money can bring great opportunities and can make life a lot easier but it isn’t the be all and end all. Remember you can’t take it with you when you’re gone. Being rich in life and having a fulfilling career you’re passionate about is worth much more than how many zeros you have in your bank account.
Strike that balance
Having a proper work life balance is so important. Don’t over-commit or else you risk burning yourself out – and if you’re not healthy and over-worked you’ll never make your way to the top. We have to accept that sometimes you can’t be everything – the super-organised mother, the perfect wife, the fun best friend. Recognise the signs of stretching yourself too thin and give yourself a break when need be.
