January 2018

The Spark | Ignite/Connect/Achieve
www.thesparkng.com
5 Work Habits For 2018
Finding it hard to get back into work mode this year? Here, you’ll find five simple ways to get
back on track and make 2018 your best year yet.
By Lehlé Baldé, MsC
Something magical happens every December 31st, people
worldwide are either praying, partying or looking forward to
January 1st. It’s a new day, a new dawn and an opportunity to
become a better version of you!
The new year is upon us and many of you probably spent a few
hours in 2017 thinking about your 2018 goals! It is popular belief
that the new year presents an opportunity for a fresh start, an
opportunity to do things differently, with a fresh perspective and
enhanced motivation. Contrary to popular belief, fortunately or
unfortunately for some, the new year is not a magical pill that
one can take to erase all issues from the previous year, but it
does present you with an opportunity to reflect, re-evaluate and
re-strategize for an even better year.
Getting back to work can be overwhelming for some, especially
after a few days or weeks off for the Christmas holidays. Here
are a few 2018 career tips to get you off to the right start this
January!
1. Planning
Planning your time is extremely important. As a busy person,
you may believe that you have one million and one things to do,
and that you have no idea where to start from, but if you took
about 20 minutes each Sunday to plan for your week, you will
find that you feel increasingly in control of your time. Invest in a
diary or notebook and ensure you write all important deadlines,
dates, meetings and work-related goals down. Having an
overview of each month or quarter is also very important,
so take the time draw up the big picture and keep yourself
accountable.
2. Communicate
4. Work-life balance
While it may seem unattainable, it is indeed possible, but only if
you work towards it! Finding equilibrium requires careful
attention. This is where planning for your time is key. Of course,
you cannot plan for everything, but you should be conscious
when to shut off and focus on other aspects of your life such as
family, friends, hobbies and home life. Work is where you spend
the majority of your time, so try to be as efficient as possible
at work, so that when you get home you can unwind and destress.
A lot of people will find this difficult, especially with the
demanding nature of living in Nigeria, but it is important to try.
Keep it at the top of your mind, that in order to be efficient at
work you must have a clear mind, healthy body and you must
be well rested. Inefficiency at work usually starts when one is
neglecting their personal care.
5. Be proactive!
The new year is a perfect opportunity to take your career to
higher heights. Go after that client you thought you could never
get a meeting with, start that project that has been on your mind
for months, reach out to that person or organization you have
been wanting to collaborate with.
In summary 2018, is your year! 2018 is the year of no fear and the
year of actualization! Remember you have the power to make
2018 the year to remember! Be proactive and deliberate with
every decision that you make!
Wishing you all a fruitful and blessed 2018!
Lehlé is a pan African communication strategist and journalist
living and working in Lagos.
At the beginning of the year ask your supervisors what their
goals are for the first quarter and how you can help them attain
their goals. The truth is every supervisor or manager wants
employees he or she can rely on. Make it a habit to check in
with your supervisor at least every week for a work chat to go
over progress and feedback. These regular conversations will
keep you motivated and ready to take on new challenges, as
well as identify areas for improvement and innovation. If you are
a manager, ensure to support your staff and communicate your
expectations and goals. Communication is key!
3. Stay healthy
Try to work out a minimum of 3 times a week and eat balanced
meals. As busy as you may be, it is important to remember to
eat breakfast. Eating breakfast will give you more energy to start
your day off right. Remember to also drink lots of water. Put a
reminder on your phone every hour to have at least one tall
glass of water. A healthy body creates a healthy mind, therefore
physical exercise is key to career success in 2018. There are plenty
of online resources that can guide you in the right direction. You
can also contact your doctor for more information.
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