Success looks different for everyone; for one person, it could mean getting a promotion or creating a better work-life balance; someone else may want to improve their relationships or learn new skills.
But while making changes in your life can seem overwhelming, it doesn't have to be. You can do small things that have a huge impact on your quality of life, whether that's switching up your daily routine, setting aside time for yourself, or reconnecting with old coworkers.
Check out seven things you can do that will empower you to be more successful – on your own terms.
1. Set weekly and monthly goals.
Setting regular goals for yourself can keep you from getting stagnant in both your professional and personal life. The best way to keep track of your goals is to write them down. Jot them on a whiteboard, a notepad on your desk, or an online calendar — anywhere you can see them regularly. ("Exercise three times this week," for example, or "Finish big presentation.") By having a constant visual reminder, you’ll be able to keep yourself accountable and measure your progress better.
2. Turn off all your devices one hour before going to bed.
Having trouble falling asleep at night? Your electronic devices may be to blame. Scientific data has shown that staring at a device (phone, TV, tablet, computer, e-reader) moments before going to bed can throw off your natural sleep-wake cycle. It’s best to power down your devices at least an hour before you hit the sack to ensure you sleep soundly.
3. Never stop learning.
Whether it’s taking a photography class to figure out how to use that fancy camera of yours or going back to school to advance your career, you should never stop striving to learn new things — regardless of where you are in life. If the idea of sitting in a classroom again gives you anxiety, though, you may want to consider a new approach to education such as Capella University’s innovative FlexPath program, which allows students to take classes on their own time and at their own pace. It's a great option for anyone balancing a busy career and a hectic life.
4. Change the way you network.
Emailing strangers or going to conferences to "network" can be intimidating. A simpler way to strengthen your professional connections is by reaching out to the people you already know. Maybe it’s an old coworker you haven’t spoken to in a year, or someone you met at a conference a while back. Every month, commit to contacting at least one person that you haven’t seen in the past six months. Who knows, a cup of coffee with a past acquaintance could lead to an amazing job lead.
5. Set aside time for yourself every day.
Too often, the workday speeds by in a nonstop blur of meetings, email, and deadlines. It's important to stop, take a breath, and have some time just for yourself. Set up calendar alerts or block out “busy” time in your daily calendar that makes you unavailable to others. During this time, you could go out for a real lunch away from your desk, take a walk, work on a side project, or even read a book. Whatever it is, be sure to use this time to recharge your batteries.
6. Expand your horizons.
It’s easy to spend all your downtime binge-watching shows on Netflix or obsessing over social media. But when was the last time you tried something new that put you out of your element? In order to avoid getting bored, it's important to break out of your comfort zone by finding fresh activities and passions. Fortunately, there are a number ways to do this — from volunteering to joining a sports league to learning a new language. Pick one thing that you've always wanted to do, or something that you liked when you were a kid and never pursued. Then start researching ways you can make it happen. By opening yourself up to different experiences, you’re bound to learn something new about yourself.
7. Change the scenery.
If you find yourself in a rut, then you may be in need of a change of scenery. Start thinking about options that will alter your environment, whether that's moving to a new place, renovating your current one, or applying for a more challenging job. Or you may need to call a babysitter and escape the city for a calm retreat and a much needed vacation. You’ll be amazed how much it can reenergize your outlook on life.