Eight leaps to success
Brian Tracy’s book Eat That Frog! 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time outlines a very practical recipe for success at work. Tracy compares the most onerous, critical task of the day, which hinders our productivity and success, to an ugly frog that is avoided as long as possible.
He recommends “eating that frog” first thing in the morning; the remainder of the day, we are propelled by the satisfaction that the worst is behind us. Here are a few ways to face your frogs and get ahead at work.
1. Review the facts.
Resist the temptation to make career choices based solely on emotions. Joan Prenger, life coach with Primeco Consulting and owner of Studio 1 Day Spa, recommends counterbalancing “your inner dialogue with facts, not just your assumptions.” Rather than negotiating a raise because you feel your work is undervalued, show in measurable terms how you have increased productivity and advanced your employer’s goals.
2. Identify your long-term goals.
Where do you want to be in 2013 or 2028? You’ll never have enough time to do everything you want. But placing the most important steps for meeting long-term goals at the top of your to-do list keeps you moving forward. Prenger points out that prioritizing your work with your vision in mind helps keep you from getting caught up in the whims of the day or in what others are doing instead of staying focused on what you need to do.
3. Find a job that fits you.
No matter what perks a job may have, if it doesn’t move you toward your goals, you’ll soon be battling boredom and burnout. Christine Ellinger, Central Bank senior vice president of human resources, says that people who find a good fit will be “happier and thus more successful in their position.” While in the middle of unemployment or underemployment, it’s easy to think that “a job’s a job.” But when unrewarding responsibilities drain away the best hours of your day, consider another round in the job market.
4. Never stop learning.
Whether through continuing education courses, conventions or professional journals, staying abreast of industry developments will not only make you shine in your current job, but help you become an expert in your field. Do this and, according to Ellinger, you’ll become the person managers think of when opportunities arise.
5. Be willing to work.
Schmoozing and credentials may get you in the door, but taking your hands out of your pockets and getting to work is what will move you forward. Identify critical tasks that aren’t getting done and make them your priority. Beth Utrecht in human resources at Premier Bank says performance does not go unnoticed—taking the initiative will set you apart.
6. Have a positive attitude.
Choose to focus on positives in your life and job instead of the negatives. Not only will you be happier, but your enthusiasm will make you more attractive to others and will help lift the group’s morale. When no amount of positive self-talk changes your outlook, consider changing your realities. Refer to #3.
7. Volunteer in the community.
Getting involved in a worthy cause can help you, too. Kathy Scheulen, director of education and small business for the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce, recommends volunteering as a way to meet others and make connections. Helping out at the Samaritan Center or organizing a Relay for Life team will offer new insights into the community’s needs and challenges.
8. Take care of yourself.
Without physical and mental health, you’ll have a hard time achieving success. Use vacations and holidays to rejuvenate emotionally and spiritually. No one will take care of your health for you. “When you feel better you are more positive and people like to be around positive, energetic individuals who are getting things done,” Scheulen finds.