Do the don’ts: Don’t lose sight of what you shouldn’t do in 2024
New Year’s resolutions can be tough. You make big plans and beat yourself up when you don’t follow through. Sometimes it’s easier to think of the things we shouldn’t do than the things we should. Confused? Here’s a quick look at some actions you shouldn’t do in 2024:
Don’t go through the motions: Even if you’re at the point where your job is second nature, don’t just mail it in. If you’re that bored and unmotivated, talk to your manager and ask for more work. If that doesn’t settle things, ask to be moved to a new department. Still not working? Sharpen up your resume and get ready to make an exit. In case you haven’t noticed, companies are in a hiring mood these days. If your current job bores you, make a move.
Don’t damage your reputation:
Instead of making sarcastic quips at departmental meetings or silently snarling at people who turn on their cameras during online meetings and want to talk to you face-to-face, maintain your professionalism. Even something as simple as an edgy joke sent over a chat to co-workers can make you look like a jerk. Don’t derail your career plans by acting like a buffoon.
Don’t make it up as you go along: Everyone’s career requires some planning and structure. You may think you can wing your day-to-day job and focus on things that interest you during any particular hour but in a workplace setting, others are relying on you doing your share of the job in a specific timeframe. To make others wait because you aren’t exactly “feeling it” when it’s time to create the monthly budget is selfish and short-sighted.
Don’t create more work: Workplaces around the country are filled with 60-hour heroes who could easily do their job in the span of three or four days. Don’t make more work for yourself. From a practical standpoint, your company is probably paying you for 40 hours of solid work. The extra 20 you think will get you ahead may have nothing to do with future promotions. It could, however, have a lot to do with how your family views you or your mental well-being. Put a cap on your hours, especially if you’re working from home. Going over them rarely serves the expected purpose.
Don’t be afraid: While it can be difficult for employees who are being harassed to find their voice, It’s always important that they find the strength to do so. What may be more important, though, is that others who witness bullying, harassment or other degrading forms of treatment from coworkers or supervisors say something. If the #metoo moment taught us anything, it’s that silence must no longer be the expected norm in hostile environments. When one person comes forward, he or she gives strength to others. If you know there’s an obvious and known wrong occurring and your co-workers are reluctant to speak up, be the bright light.
Don’t settle: Whether it’s the quality of a project you’ve completed or your career, make 2024 the year you no longer take satisfaction in mediocre outcomes. Set your expectations higher. Hold your work and career to a higher standard. There are many ways to improve your own situation but the first thing you need to do is raise the bar.