From Reflection to Your Next Career Step

Focus on one change you can test

After reading career advice, you might end up with a long list of resolutions. You want to communicate better, learn more, build your network, work more calmly, and maybe change jobs. If you start everything at once, it’s hard to tell what’s actually working.

Choose one goal for the coming period. Describe it as an action you can control: “Once a week, I’ll ask for specific feedback” or “Before accepting a new contract, I’ll check how much time it will take.” A general goal like “I’ll be more successful” won’t tell you what to do next.

Divide your plan into three parts: action, evidence, review. The action is something within your control. Evidence is an observable result, such as a clearer understanding of expectations. During the review, ask what worked, what surprised you, and what you’ll change.

When reviewing results, watch out for one-sided measures. The number of contacts you reach out to may not tell you much about the quality of your relationships. The number of hours you work doesn’t automatically prove your work is valuable. Track the result as well as what it costs you.

Put it into practice: Write down one 30-day experiment with a specific first step. Set a date to review it. If it doesn’t help, adjust your approach instead of drawing a sweeping conclusion about your abilities from a single attempt.