The New Year is here, meaning that you may be taking a long hard look at your career. Even if you love what you do and love where you work, you should still set some career goals for the year ahead!

Goal #1 Continuing Education

As a senior care professional, your employer likely provides recurrent and ongoing training. Although this training is invaluable, consider if there are new skillsets you want to develop in the year ahead—or if going back to school part-time will help you to expand your career opportunities.

Goal #2 Find A Company That Is The Perfect Fit

We know that you are as passionate about senior care as we are, but we also know how important it is to find an employer whose vision and values align with yours. We also know how important it is to find an employer with a company culture that suits you, and offers the growth potential you desire. If that is not how you would explain your current employer—let us help!

Goal #3 Work Towards That Promotion

If there is a job opening you have your eye on or even a position in which you want to see yourself 5 years from now, then you need to map out a clear plan of action. Consider questions such as:

• What skills do you need to develop to get there?
• Does your manager know that you are interested?
• Are you keeping an up-to-date list of your accomplishments and contributions? *Particularly those beyond your current job title or those that are required for the promotion you desire.

Goal #4 Achieve More Balance

As a senior care professional, you are at a higher risk for burnout than many other industries. However, burnout is preventable! Turn to the tips below to ensure that balance is of high priority: 

• Add more stress-relieving activities to your weekly routine.
• When needed, limit your venting about work to no more than 10 minutes. Then enjoy the rest of your day.
• Make your health a larger priority. This includes sleep, hydration, nutrition, and exercise. And yes, even if you are on your feet all day—you still need to stretch a strengthen your body!

Goal #5 Help Others Succeed

Everyone needs a mentor or, at the very least, a helping hand. Set a goal to take a newer employee under your wing, or to make yourself more available to your team. You are likely to find that this creates a positive ripple effect!

The career goals above are perfect for 2016 and will help you both personally and professionally!