As we head into the new year, it is wise to look at what you want to accomplish and map out a strategy to reach your goals. Economic conditions are changing, and people are concerned about a possible recession; it is smart to not get caught off guard.
Determine your qualifications. One thing to do is determine if you have the necessary qualifications for the job you want; if you do not, find out what you need to do. If more education is necessary, start looking at options such as community college. As the minimum wage in the District keeps rising, employers will start demanding higher qualifications for employment, even for entry-level work. You want to make sure you are able to compete for good positions that will allow you to build a career.
Set incremental goals. If your goal is to do something over the course of a year, such as paying off debt, starting a business or getting a better job, make sure you set up incremental goals because you need to have a way to keep momentum.
Understand the changing economy. You want to make yourself look as valuable as possible, and technology is changing things even faster than people have imagined it would. McDonald’s and Taco Bell, among other companies, have started putting in machines to take orders, and many chains allow for customers to order through websites and apps.
Follow your passion. If you have a passion for doing something and want to make 2019 the year you take your life in a new direction, find ways to gain the skills and knowledge needed. Read books or watch YouTube videos to learn new skills and techniques.
Network. Try and find the people that are already doing what you want to do, and figure out how they did it. Often, those people have done interviews with the media, so it is easy to find those articles and videos online.
Stay positive. And make sure to keep reading my column “Moving Up” in 2019. I intend to keep you informed of what will help you get where you want to go in your life.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this column, have an idea for something you want me to write about or if you want to let me know that you like or dislike this column, please email me at [email protected]. Your opinions are always welcome.
