3 Ways to Get More out of Your Job
By: Steena Hymes, Program Coordinator
You are a recent graduate struggling to find work in your field, so you accept a “filler position.”
You have your dream job, but leadership is lacking.
Your 5 or 10-year plan is well under way, but it’s taking too long to get out of that entry-level position.
You’re itching to relocate to a city more your speed, but circumstances require you to stay put.
You want to go back to school, but finances are holding you back.
At some point in life, we all are going to find ourselves at an impasse. Whether you can relate to one of the examples above or another, here are three ways to make the most of any situation:
Find the Lesson
What can you learn from your current situation? Are you learning practical skills that you can put on a resume? Or maybe you are learning more about yourself – what environments you work well in, where your natural talents fit in, how you respond to difficult situations. Wherever you find yourself, be intentional and find the learning opportunities. If you frequently work with Excel or Publisher, take a class to master the program. Find ways to improve your day-to-day processes for a more productive and efficient work schedule. Wish you had more from your leadership team? Consider how to communicate with your supervisor on how to better maximize your time and work. Learn to view every season of life as a learning opportunity that you can carry into your next stage of life. Make a list of four areas for potential growth and start there.
Be a Difference Maker
Often times feeling unfulfilled in a situation can lead to indifference or lack of motivation. Avoid this at all cost! The moment you stop caring is the moment you’ve lost. If you are struggling to find the motivation and work to your best ability, start identifying ways you are making a difference – no matter how insignificant you may think it is!
- Your supervisor is overwhelmed with a large project, but your commitment to the day-to-day tasks are lifting a burden off his or her shoulders.
- Your friendly and graceful attitude with that notoriously difficult customer is shaping the reputation of your company.
- Your attention to the monotonous details could save an entire project.
- Arriving every day at 8am sharp ensures somebody is around to answer the phones and help customers.
Think through every situation and imagine what would be lacking if not for you! A positive attitude and a strong work ethic can truly make all the difference. Whether you realize it or not, people noticed those things and you never know who could be paying attention.
Set Goals
If you don’t have them already, start setting attainable goals both in and out of the office. Learn to cook 3 new dishes this month. Go for a walk 3 days a week. Commit to attend 3 webinars or read 3 personal development books within a year. Beware of setting goals that are too big in an unrealistic time-frame as they tend to fall apart. Remember to think SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time bound).
These three action-oriented tools will not only improve this season of life, but better prepare you for what comes next!
Steena has been with ASG for over 2 years and works with NACRO, LRA and GFVGA. She is an Ohio native and Malone University graduate.
