Where do you see yourself in x years’ time?

15 Mar 2013 | 3 Comments | posted by Megan Onions | in The Business of Translation

Ok, so you started 2013 with bags of energy and the determination to progress and make this your (and your business’) best year yet. But energy has this way of draining after a few tough days (or weeks), and bad experiences with new clients or suppliers can get you down. It’s easy to lose your way on the path to your goal.

That’s why Katie Anderson’s latest blog post really spoke to me. Career progression comes down to choices. Your choices. Whenever a new opportunity comes your way, or you have a new idea, ask yourself whether the step will bring you closer to your ultimate goal. Yes? Go for it! No? Maybe it’s time for a rethink. Thinking of your dream career, or the place where you want your business to be in 5 years’ time, as a destination can make it all seem that little bit more achievable. Most things in life can be equated to a journey, and it takes a lot of time and effort to get to the end of that road and achieve your dreams.

Of course, the first step in all of this is establishing exactly what you’re aiming for. I sat down with a big piece of paper and a set of coloured pens (stationery – I can’t help myself) and mapped out my path. If you have a spare 30 minutes or so (longer if you really get into it), I would really recommend this – it was a great help for me to physically see where I want to be and how I can get there.

If visual techniques aren’t your thing, there’s always the age-old question: where do you see your business in 5/10/20 years’ time? Be clear, though. You need to set, or at least identify, real targets, or it becomes a wasted exercise.

How are you feeling about your business at this potentially deflating time of year? Personally, I’m cheerful, busy and in need of a holiday!