Here's how you can effectively set and achieve your career goals.

If you have a clear reason why you do what you do - this becomes that much easier. IKIGAI is not just a theoretical concept- it is practical where you take a step back and reflect on your passion, mission, vocation, and profession. Identify what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Define goals that integrate these elements, making them SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Once matrix is set, whatever you do professionally has to contribute to that goal in long-run can be as simple as I task towards that journey.

When setting career goals, it's crucial to break them down into actionable steps. For example, if your goal is to obtain a managerial position, outline the specific skills and experiences you need to acquire. Regularly review and adjust your goals to stay aligned with your evolving career path. This proactive approach not only keeps you focused but also makes the journey toward your objectives more manageable and less overwhelming.

Getting healthy sounds like a goal but its not one, loosing 10 kg in 6 months is a goal. Goals should be tangible, measurable and reportable, only then they can be achieved.

Effectively setting and achieving your career goals involves a clear and structured approach. Start by defining specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Break down each goal into smaller, manageable tasks to create a clear roadmap. Regularly track your progress and adjust your plan as needed. Seek feedback from mentors, a career coach and colleagues to stay on the right path. Stay motivated by celebrating small victories along the way. Prioritize continuous learning and skill development to adapt to changing career demands

As part of developing your soft skills, explore your emotional intelligence and how you can upgrade this! I used to think emotional intelligence was overhyped and commercialised word until recently. However once you understand the role your emotions and other people’s emotions play in your career development you can learn to maximise it to your advantage and incorporate it into your plan. It will help with self regulation, build stronger relationships, manage workplace or leadership dynamics, manage conflict whilst keeping your head up high.

This self-awareness is essential for personal and professional growth, as it empowers you to: - Capitalize on your strengths to maximize impact - Address weaknesses to become a more well-rounded professional - Set realistic goals and development plans - Communicate effectively with colleagues, mentors, and employers - Adapt to changing demands and industry trends

A effective strategic plan should: - Outline required education, certifications, or training - Identify key networking opportunities and connections - Define target positions or milestones - Break down large goals into smaller, manageable tasks with deadlines - Establish a timeline for regular review and adjustment

I have my clients map their goal attainment by year and then back into a plan to get there. Say you have a goal you want to reach in three years - what are the things you need to do to achieve the goal? What are the immediate next steps to take in 30 days vs. 90? Be sure to identify key steps and milestones and map them into a timeline to make sure the date you want to achieve your goal is doable.

Building a professional network is crucial to achieving your career goals, and the network needs to be viable and dynamic and can help you navigate the various objectives you set out for your career. Another essential element is that in order for you to have a network you can depend on, you need to cultivate mutually beneficial relationships. Show your worth to your network members by offering unique insights, support, connections and services, which, in return, you can bank on to help you navigate future challenges, questions, and even introductions that will help you advance your career. There's no wasted effort in building a network, and also it takes time, so be patient and be sure that there will be a day when you reap the benefit.

Effective networking involves: - Building genuine connections with others - Engaging in meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing - Offering help and support to others in your network - Participating in industry events, conferences, and workshops - Joining professional associations and online forums - Nurturing relationships over time

Aside from workshops, webinars and conferences, you can enroll in online courses through platforms like Coursera or Udemy to acquire new skills and knowledge. Read relevant books, articles, and journals to broaden your understanding and stay informed. Seek feedback from peers and mentors to identify areas for improvement and growth. In today's world, you HAVE to prioritize continuous personal and professional development.

What the past 18 months have taught me, is that you need to be adaptable in order to stay ahead. Also, you are never too old to adapt or change your career direction. Stay curious, stay informed and be resilient.

Track your progress Regularly review and assess your advancement towards your goals Use a journal, app, or spreadsheet to monitor your progress Celebrate small wins and milestones along the way

No hay ninguna forma de alcanzar el éxito de forma eficaz, sólo hay esfuerzo y constancia. Solemos buscar el éxito y quererlo al instante, pero en muy pocas ocasiones el éxito nace de la suerte o de un acto aleatorio. El éxito se crea con constancia, todos los días. El éxito se crea con esfuerzo, sin escatimar ni una sola gota de sudor, en nuestro día a dia El éxito se crea creyendo en que podemos conseguirlo, siendo conscientes de nuestras limitaciones, pero sabiendo que debemos buscar la mejor versión de nosotros mismo.

Maintain work-life balance Ensure your career goals don't overshadow other important aspects of life Set boundaries to prevent burnout Make time for self-care and personal relationships

Reflect and reassess Periodically evaluate if your goals still align with your values and aspirations Be willing to pivot or change direction if necessary Continuously set new goals as you achieve existing ones

Finding a coach, mentor, supportive partner, or trusted friend to help you stay accountable is a powerful strategy for achieving your career goals, as it's often easier to keep promises made to others than those we make to ourselves. These accountability partners provide external pressure, support, encouragement, and an objective perspective, ensuring regular check-ins to maintain focus. To make this work, clearly define your goals, schedule consistent meetings, communicate openly about your progress, celebrate milestones, and be willing to adjust your plan based on feedback and changing circumstances.