When you get your first job, mistakes are easy to accept as part of the learning process. After several years of experience, you expect to perform better and avoid common mistakes. Employees at all levels make mistakes, and rigidly trying to avoid missteps can prevent you from advancing in your career. Take a look at these areas where experienced workers occasionally slip up along with some suggestions for growing during the process.
Following a Plan
Most people have some idea of how they want their career trajectory to look. Maybe you have a 10-year plan. Plans provide you with guidelines for making career-based decisions so you don't have to obsess about every detail. On the other hand, sticking to a plan limits your choices. One common mistake seasoned workers make is staying committed to a plan that no longer makes sense for them. If you feel stuck or unhappy with your career path, it might be time to push your plan aside and move in a new direction.
Playing It Safe
After a few years on the job, it becomes more difficult to take risks. A common mistake is always doing the safe thing to avoid any chance of failing. Unfortunately, the safe path is usually not very innovative, provides fewer learning opportunities and is unlikely to help you move up in your organization. Instead, take calculated risks and learn from your failures. Moving outside of your comfort zone and tackling new challenges is the best way to fuel growth.
Devoting Too Much Time and Energy to Your Job
Many new employees think that they will be able achieve a better work-life balance after they have been in their positions a few years. In reality, the opposite often happens. Not prioritizing work-life balance is a common mistake among experienced workers. In some situations, temporarily prioritizing work is a good thing. For example, occasionally working late to meet a tight project deadline is fine, and spending all your free time on a special presentation might be worth it if it earns you a promotion. However, when your job starts to consume your whole life, it is time to start setting limits on your time or delegating tasks.
Not Being Observant
As you get comfortable in your position, it is easy to miss out on the important things happening in your organization. This common mistake might leave you blindsided when a merger hits or clueless about your team's general dislike of your management style. Cultivate mindfulness into your work routine. Spend time in conversation with others, and be present during these interactions. If you find yourself hurrying too often, incorporate relaxation routines into your work day.
Mistakes are a part of life that help us learn. Being open to making mistakes shows that you are confident enough to take risks. Try to avoid common mistakes, such as becoming a workaholic or always playing it safe. Be innovative and willing to move in new directions, even if those directions occasionally lead to failure. When you fail, learn from your mistakes and continue to move forward.
Photo courtesy of netningmilo at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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