Do you ask yourself what you can do to be more successful in your job? Self-development is of utmost importance in the future success of each individual. Corporate training, attending seminars and workshops, taking advantage of educational opportunities, etc. are all important in continuing improvement to grow in your position or prepare for other positions in the future.

There are many things that you can do to continue your development. Some are listed below.

1. Always do your best.

2. Accept constructive criticism. If you don’t get it from your manager, ask for it.

3. Learn from everyone – young, old, experienced, inexperienced, etc.

4. Be open to change. Be flexible.

5. Accept responsibilities even if they are not your #1 choice of things to do or if they are not in your formal job description.

6. Don’t run over people. It is not necessary to get ahead.

7. Remember that no man/woman is an island. No one makes it alone.

8. Be a mentor. Find a mentor.

9. Ask for help. It is not a sign of weakness but actually shows strength.

10. Be quick to give credit to others.

11. Praise others when they do a good job. Encourage others, even if you are not receiving praise or encouragement yourself.

12. Understand that things are not always as they may appear on the outside.

13. Don’t be judgmental. Until you have walked In another person’s shoes for a time you don’t know what they are going through that causes them to act the way they do.

14. Treat people right.

15. Do the right thing, always.

16. Stay grounded. Don’t get caught up in your own importance.

17. Be enthusiastic. Enthusiasm is contagious. Spread it around.

18. Don’t give up. Be persistent.

19. Know when a change is needed and don’t rebel against change.

20. Speak well of your employer. If you can’t, leave and find another job with another company.

21. Understand what you enjoy most about your job.

22. Set goals and measure your attainment of goals.

23. Do a strength and weakness analysis of yourself.

24. Focus on the positive.

25. Be grateful for all your blessings.

One of Winston Churchill’s most well know speeches was also the shortest. He said, “ Never give up. Never give up. Never give up.” Having an optimistic attitude and realistically approaching life and all its challenges can be rewarding. Your attitude on life affects your approach to your job and all your relationships, on the job and with family and friends. One of my favorite scriptures is found in Philippians 4:13. “ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

 

Becky Vaughn-Furlow retired from Trustmark Bank as executive vice president and human resources director. She can be contacted by emailing bvaughnfurlow@gmail.com.