How about a calendar of self-improvement?
By Anita Bruzzese
Gannett News Service
Let's face it: Many of us have had no intention of making resolutions regarding work. After all, our to-do list is so overloaded, we've had to make a to-do list to get the to-do list done. So why bother?
You should do it because if they're the right kind of resolutions, they won't seem burdensome; they'll actually free you. They will rid you of annoying problems and guilt over what you don't get done — and help you see your way more clearly to the professional and personal goals that truly matter.
In case you really can't get around to making that list, here's one for you.
• January: Make a list of all your files. Eliminate duplicated and out-of-date files. If you have it on hard drive, don't print it out. If you are receiving unnecessary printed material, ask the person giving it to you to stop doing it. Pick up the phone and get yourself off unwanted mailing lists.
• February: Attend at least one networking event where you meet at least five new people. Introduce at least two people you know to someone else. Practice your body language.
• March: Ask someone at work whom you don't know well (or perhaps don't like very much) to lunch or coffee. Try to get to know the person, asking nonconfrontational questions. Ask about likes and dislikes.
• April: Ask for training. Let the boss know you're interested in improving your skills. If money isn't available for formal training off the premises, ask to observe another department for a few days.
• May: Update your résumé. Read industry news. Look at job postings online. Make contact with anyone you would use as a job reference, just to say hello and make the person aware of your latest accomplishments.
• June: Do all your vacation planning for the year, even if you'd only stay home and relax. Find a way to lose the pager, phone and e-mail.
• July: Enroll in a personal speaking class or seminar. It can be one of the best investments you make in yourself professionally and personally.
• August: It's really too hot to do anything, so get a group together and go out after work for ice cream. It's been known to cement workplace relationships.
• September: Think about getting a mentor, someone you've met professionally who would be willing to meet with you over the next two months to discuss your everyday working strategies and your long-term goals.
• October: Ask a department store's personal shopper to evaluate your professional style from head to toe.
• November: Vow to use your best manners. Remember to say please and thank you all the time. Give at least three sincere compliments to someone other than your boss every day.
• December: Give of yourself. You figure that one out.
