Here’s a radical idea → stop worrying about might happen and just do what you can do. The variables of circumstances and situations are often unknown so when you focus on the process, rather than the outcomes, you let the results take care of themselves.
When it comes to your working life, there’s a common tendency to spend a lot of time in your “future” i.e. that place where things are “going to” happen, or will be “amazing”. That place where you’re promoted, reach the top of tree, earn the big money, get out of bed everyday loving what you’re doing.
And while I’m totally up for a little dreaming when it comes to creating a career you love, I know, I for one, spent waaaaaaay too much time waiting, hoping, and wishing for that successful “future” to show up.
It took me a VERY long time to learn that career success doesn’t turn up at a particular time nor can you easily rate your progression against a generic set of measurements. Because we’re all running our own race, our versions of success are different and therefore, the steps required to achieve it are also different.
But while there might not be a single success formula, there is one powerful habit or attitude you can develop that will exponentially increase your likelihood of achieving the level of success you want.
Show up and focus on the process, rather than the outcome
They say “80% of success is just showing up”. And “showing up” doesn’t refer to physically turning up somewhere but rather to putting in the work. Consistently, tirelessly and even when it feels like nothing’s happening and no one is listening.
It takes discipline and courage to show up in your career. When things are going well, you’re more likely to let things coast and when you’re tired or anxious, you let yourself off the hook.
Showing up requires you to “be present”. It means letting yourself be seen by making yourself visible and putting yourself forward. And, it needs you to stop focussing on results (i.e. the future) and commit yourself to the “here and now” (i.e. the present).
When you’re consistently showing up and focussed on the process rather than the outcomes, you put yourself in charge of the things within your control. When you’re putting in the effort, taking the steps, and learning the lessons, results will come.
The best actions you can take to start showing up in your career
1. SPEAK UP
It’s time to take a seat at the table and be heard. Don’t hold back waiting for the perfect moment to contribute. By staying silent, you’re missing out on the chance to showcase your expertise and make an impact. It’s okay to feel nervous, but with preparation and practice, you can build your confidence and speak up with authority. Remember, your voice deserves to be heard.
2. ADD VALUE
Some of the best opportunities for workplace or career success come from your allies and advocates. Position yourself as an expert, offer support to others, and build your reputation. In doing so, you create a profile, build your reputation and put yourself in the best possible place to build and nurture valuable relationships.
3. PUSH YOUR BOUNDARIES
Be open to new opportunities even if they feel challenging or uncomfortable. Step out of your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. Take on challenges that stretch you, like joining a committee, volunteering for a project, or giving a presentation. Embrace the learning process and don’t worry about the outcome. The growth you experience will expand your skills and boost your confidence.
4. PROBLEM SOLVING
When you find things are not going your way, do you look for excuses, find a way to blame it on some other person or circumstances? I know, we’ve all done it! You can’t control other people’s behaviour and situational circumstances, so there’s little you can do to change them. Focus instead on finding your own solution to a difficult situation. In doing so you’re likely to gain valuable new skills that will serve you well in any workplace or life setting.
5. KEEP GETTING BACK UP
Setbacks are inevitable, but don’t let them get you down. These are all part of the process. The trick is to keep going, getting back up, and continuing to show up. Persevere and keep taking small steps forward. Doing something is always better than doing nothing at all.
You will always create more opportunities and achieve greater success by just “showing up”.
Imagine feeling lit up and inspired by what you do every day instead… take the Fix Your Career quiz today to uncover where you need to start to create a working life you love and that works for you.