4 Tips for Assessing Your Career and Future

From time to time, it is worth taking a step back and assessing your career and life goals. There is no ‘correct’ time to do this. You might be mid-way through your exams, just starting out or approaching the end of your studies. Wherever you are, it is always helpful to know what your short-term and medium-term goals are. This can support you with motivation during stressful times but also ensure you are taking decisive steps to determine your future career.

There are many ways you can do this but here are our suggestions below.

1. Self-Reflection

• Identify Values: Reflect on what matters most to you in a career (e.g., work-life balance, creativity, stability)

• Evaluate Interests: Consider what you enjoy doing and what you’re passionate about

• Assess Skills: List your strengths and skills. Think about what you excel at and what you’d like to improve

2. Set Goals

• Short-Term vs. Long-Term: Define what you want to achieve in the next year and in the next five to ten years

• SMART Goals: Make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound

3. Research Opportunities

• Explore Career Paths: Investigate different industries, roles, and companies that align with your interests and values

• Networking: Connect with professionals in your field or areas of interest to gain insights and advice

4. Create an Action Plan

• Steps to Take: Break down your goals into actionable steps. What can you do weekly or monthly?

• Timeline: Set deadlines for each step to keep yourself accountable

By systematically assessing your career and future, you can make informed decisions that align with your aspirations and values.

It’s aways a good time to think about where you are now, where you want to be, and how you might get there.