Is your career firing? 5 Questions to keep you on track

In a diverse and rapidly changing world, career success doesn’t always look like we expect. The old corporate ladder isn’t the only way to grow anymore. With new opportunities, industries, and work styles popping up all the time, it’s a good idea to take a step back and see if your career is firing on all cylinders, or if it needs a bit of a tune-up. Think of your career like a high-performance engine. To keep it running smoothly and at full speed, you need to give it regular check-ups. We recommend asking yourself these five questions each month to make sure your career is running at its best.

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1. Am I Excited to Start My Workday?

It’s easy to get caught in the day-to-day grind and forget about your initial spark. At the beginning of your career, you likely had a sense of excitement - a reason you got out of bed every morning. If you can’t remember the last time you felt a thrill about the work you're doing, it might be time to reevaluate.

Why it matters: Passion isn’t just a "nice to have." It’s essential for long-term career satisfaction and personal well-being. If you’re not genuinely excited about what you do, it’s hard to give your best.

Action step: Take a moment to reflect. What tasks or projects make you lose track of time? What would you do if you didn’t need to work for a paycheck? Identifying the aspects of your job that fuel your passion will help you prioritize them and align your career with what excites you.

2. Am I Learning and Growing?

Learning shouldn’t stop after university or your first couple of years on the job. In fact, it should be a constant. Whether you’re gaining new technical skills, improving your leadership abilities, or expanding your industry knowledge, personal and professional growth is the fuel that keeps your career engine running.

Why it matters: Stagnation can lead to burnout and disengagement. If you’re not growing, you’re not evolving - and neither is your career.

Action step: Identify the areas you want to develop. Is there a new skill you’ve been eyeing? A class you’ve been meaning to take? Or perhaps a mentor you should be seeking out? Build a learning plan to ensure you're always moving forward.

3. Am I Surrounded by People Who Inspire Me?

It’s often said that you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with. If those five people are complacent, uninspired, or disinterested in their careers, it's easy to fall into the same mindset. Surround yourself with people who motivate, challenge, and encourage you to push beyond your limits.

Why it matters: Your network is one of your greatest assets. Positive, driven colleagues or mentors can open doors, offer new perspectives, and help you stay energized and focused.

Action step: Evaluate your current circle. Are you getting the mentorship, encouragement and feedback you need? If not, seek out new connections - whether it's joining a professional community, connecting with people outside your immediate team, or finding a mentor who challenges you to level up.

4. Am I Navigating My Career with Purpose?

It’s easy to drift from one opportunity to the next, taking the path of least resistance. But your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Having a clear sense of purpose - whether it’s a career mission, a personal vision, or a set of core values you align with - is what will keep you on track when the road gets bumpy.

Why it matters: Without purpose, your career can start to feel like you’re just going through the motions. Purpose creates direction, helping you make intentional decisions that align with your long-term vision.

Action step: Reflect on your values and long-term goals. What’s the bigger picture behind the work you do? Where do you want to go next? Take a step back, write out your career goals, and align your current role with that purpose.

5. Am I Taking Risks?

Playing it safe might keep you comfortable, but it won't lead to growth. Risk is an integral part of career advancement. Whether it's speaking up in meetings, taking on a challenging project, switching industries, or even leaving your current job for something new, taking risks is a sign of progress.

Why it matters: The world of work is evolving rapidly, and those who hesitate to take risks might find themselves left behind. Career growth often requires stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.

Action step: Look for opportunities to stretch your limits. Are you taking on projects that challenge your skills? Have you pushed yourself to learn something completely new? If not, it's time to step up your risk-taking game.

The Big Takeaway: Ask yourself tough questions often

By asking yourself these five questions regularly you can keep yourself on track and ensure that your career isn’t just a job - but a meaningful, exciting journey. The world of work is constantly changing, and your career should evolve with it. So, check your engine, fuel your passions and don’t be afraid to take the wheel in new directions. Your career isn’t just about where you’re going - it’s about how you’re getting there. Regular interrogation of how you’re spending your time will remind you to seek out what matters and jump on opportunity when it comes your way. 

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