It’s the start of a new year, which often prompts people to reflect on where they are going and question how they are going to get there. It is also that time of the year when we often talk about resolutions and look honestly at the areas of our life that need adjusting and improvement.

Here’s what I know for sure: bringing your ‘A’ game to 2023 can be both daunting and challenging. Or, with the right mindset and outlook, it can be super exciting! So many people find that the start of the year kickstarts their adrenaline and drive regarding their job and longer-term vision for their career.

We are presented with two possibilities for the year ahead:

Option #1

We can limp towards the end of this year, completely exhausted, thinking that the break and a fresh start will do us a world of good.

Spoiler alert: you’re likely to return from the break, disappointed to learn that all your feelings from the previous year are alive and well. 

Option #2

Right here, right now, we can ask ourselves the tough questions that will help to energise and motivate us for the year ahead.

I bet we’re all on the same page as to which is the preferable option.

The beginning of the year is the time to ask yourself these important questions:

• Is [enter your job] what I really want to be doing in 6 months? How about in 12 months or in 2 years’ time? What do I really want from my work life?
• What is likely to happen at my workplace this year? Are any potential changes likely to impact me directly?
• What kind of lifestyle do I want to work towards?

If you’re reading this, and you’re in between jobs, the same principles apply. In fact, you may be at an advantage to many others who, despite what they are feeling and thinking, won’t take any action because they have the security blanket of their existing job to rely on.

Like anything worth doing or achieving in life, career planning requires consistency and effort. You need to be willing to get comfortable asking the hard questions and open to what you are truly feeling whilst taking into account your environment and what is realistic. It is hard, but doing so always generates positive results.

The good news is you don’t have to go it alone. Seeking the help of a mentor or coach can help you identify your priorities and come up with an actionable plan to move forward. Here is some feedback we have received from a selection of professionals we have coached at OnTalent recently:

“Now that I understand my options, I can take action.”

“I didn’t realise I had these skills.”

“I feel more confident and motivated.”

“I have put a plan in place and followed it through before, but having a coach meant I was held accountable.”

The list goes on.

Make your career and lifestyle work for you in 2023 and beyond. No one else will. Consider what you bring to the table and understand that remaining current and in-tune with the needs of the workplace is vital. And if you’re struggling or not quite sure if you’re on the right track, think about investing in yourself and finding a coach to support you through the process.

Deborah Wilson is a Thought Leader and a Career Strategist. She takes a personalised approach to strategic career coaching and career transitions, mentoring and leadership development. Deborah provides expert guidance for individuals whilst supporting organisations through change and connecting people and purpose. Call Deborah on +61 403 779 746. www.ontalent.com.au