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What is it that you really want?
As we move into 2018 and begin to take on this new year, the vast majority of people spend some time being reflective and setting new goals and aspirations. We all seem to be able to dream big at this time – but often fall flat as we start to progress into the year based on a hundred different reasons. (In fact, 92% of us fall flat of achieving any New Year's resolutions at all.)
But when it comes to your career, it doesn’t have to be a new resolution or plan that you’ve just set in place. It really is all about taking a hard look at who you are and what your values are, deciding what it is that you really want and then actually going after it.
And the “going after it” part is where many of us fall down.
All too often women will let job opportunities pass them by because they only feel confident in 5 of the 10 qualifications, or 2 of the 4, or 6 of the 8. But men, typically, will go after it with even less applicable skills in their arsenal.
Why is that? Why do women traditionally feel that if they do a good job, keep their head down, then they will be rewarded for their great efforts. But men traditionally promote themselves like crazy, network like there's no tomorrow, and drive forward even if they haven’t yet mastered what they are doing today*.
*Disclaimer: while I agree that this isn’t the case for everyone, it is commonly what I hear my female clients, friends, colleagues say time and time again.
It’s Time to Make a Change
So rather than let any more opportunities pass you by, ask yourself what’s really holding you back. Check yourself on your strengths, skills and value that you are bringing to the table. And if you still don’t believe you’re ready, collect feedback from your peers on your performance. Build up your confidence in any way that you can including by telling yourself that you deserve it – because frankly you do. And when you’ve rallied, go get it.
And Even More…
Don’t stop there. When you do go after it, don’t be afraid to ask for the big stuff. Meaning, ask for that raise. Ask for that sign on bonus. Ask for that additional week of vacation. Ask for the stock options. Ask for flex time and work from home days. Know that if you don’t ask for it, you’ll never get it – and you deserve whatever that thing is.
And if you need a little help getting you there, we’re here for you.
Thank you Nikki Muntz for the inspiration for this great approach to going after what you want.