How to get out of the RUT

I decided to start the week with this.

I’ve discovered that for experienced professionals, some things seem like platitudes. But for folks who are still feeling their way through their career, and “adulting” in the process, the right type of guidance helps.

You feel overwhelmed at work and are not doing tasks you like. Unmotivated and frustrated, you are uncertain if you should quit, pursue a master’s program, or start your own business. But even that is confusing!

Sounds familiar? Here is how I recommend you get out of that rut.

1) 𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: It's okay not to know everything. The key is to embrace learning and keep growing each day. Accept that it's fine to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. It's part of the learning curve.

2) 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: While motivation is a great catalyst for action, it fluctuates. Discipline, on the other hand, is what keeps you going even when motivation wanes. Discipline is committing to your goals and working towards them, no matter how you feel.

3) 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬: SMART= specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This helps you set effective goals. Instead of saying, "I want to get better at my job," say, "I want to improve my sales numbers by 10% over the next quarter." This gives you a clear target to aim for and a way to measure your progress.

4) 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐠𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬: Have clear, tangible goals and visualize them daily. They serve as your beacon in times of uncertainty and remind you what your targets are.

5) 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤: Seek constructive feedback from colleagues, mentors, or supervisors. This can give you insight into areas you can improve. Remember, feedback is not a criticism of you as a person, but a tool to help you improve.

6) 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬: Maintain a sense of curiosity about your work and your field. This can lead to a deeper understanding and open up new avenues for growth and development. Ask questions, do research, and always strive to know more.

7) 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤: Building relationships can be beneficial. Not only can you learn from their experiences and gain advice, but you may also discover opportunities you would not have found otherwise. Don't be afraid to connect with others.

8) 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧: Everyone has days they feel inadequate or overwhelmed. It's part of being human. Instead of getting frustrated or feeling bad about yourself, approach these situations objectively.

9) 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞: Work is important, but so is the rest of your life. Ensure you have a work-life balance. This prevents burnout and keeps you from getting overwhelmed. Dedicate time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.

Personal and professional development is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem.

Have a great week! Davidson.