With 2021 right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how to make next year the best ever, both personally and professionally. However, resolutions don’t have to mean big, sweeping changes. These simple resolutions can help you strike a better work-life balance and increase your professional success in the new year.
1. Have Electronics-free Time
Between work and home, you probably spend a lot of your time on an electronic device. We’ve reached a point where the average American adult spends over 11 hours a day in front of screens. Try blocking off a time of the day (or week) to put down all electronics and disconnect. Spend this time with family, pursuing a hobby, or just relaxing!
2. Clear Your Inbox – and Keep it Clear
Looking at a full inbox can be overwhelming. By using a technique called “inbox zero” you can keep your inbox clear. The basic premise is to deal with your emails as they come in. This means replying as soon as you open the email (if you can), and sorting them into folders or deleting as you open them. This is also a good time to unsubscribe from newsletters and groups that you’re not interested in anymore. The goal is to keep your inbox empty.
3. Utilize LinkedIn
Social media is a powerful networking tool and LinkedIn is a great way to promote yourself and your business. Keeping your profile active and using it to reach out can help you build business relationships, now and in the future.
4. Ask for Help
While being self-sufficient is a great skill, so is knowing when to ask for help. No one is an expert in everything! Asking for help improves collaboration and helps you build your knowledge base. Being part of a team means helping out others with your knowledge – and asking for help when something is outside of your skill set.
5. Stretch Yourself
While it can be scary to take on new responsibilities or try something new, not doing so can leave you in a career rut. Take this year to look for opportunities to stretch yourself and grow by going outside your comfort zone.
The new year is a good time to try new things. These five resolutions can help boost your career and your happiness in the coming year.
