14 Dec Clarifying Your Career Path
As a law practitioner you may well have found that your career path over the past few years has been a bumpy one – both health wise and economically. For some practices this period of change has resulted in a detailed review of their business strategy. For employees, it has been a time of change and adaption to new circumstances. While some have coped, others have been left tired and confused. These changes have caused many to reflect on and rethink their future career path. Perhaps you are unhappy with some aspect of your work, be it a stressful workplace or you have just outgrown your current role. If this sounds like you, the holiday season is a great time to get started on planning the next phase of your legal career.
During the summer break, thinking about your career is usually the last thing on your mind. After all, it’s the season for social gatherings, barbeques and beaches. However, it is when your mind is relaxed that you can start to lay the groundwork for a successful future. National Science Foundation research has shown that a great deal of meaningful activity is occurring in the brain when a person is sitting back and doing nothing at all. It is during periods of rest and relaxation that individuals make their best decisions.
You should start this process with a self-assessment. If, after reflection, you feel stuck in your job it may well be the right time to make a change. The end of the year is a great time to take stock of what you want in your professional life. It’s a time of natural transition, you may want to move up the legal ladder, switch firms, or even change practice areas. Such positive change and career advancement will help you feel more motivated and engaged with your work.
Firstly, think about how you would like your career to change. Does your current career represent your values? If not, what would be different? What would your daily routine look like in terms of work? Then, think about where you want to go next in terms of your career – investing some time with a career coach, or mentor, can help you nail this down. Talk to a specialist legal recruiter to obtain information on the current job market, salary ranges and the number of positions in your field currently available. If you are considering a lateral career move, they will also be able to advise if this can be achieved in the short term, or will prove to be long term goal.
When considering change it is important to be mentally prepared. Finding a new position can take time and involve setbacks along the way. When you are prepared for such a scenario you will be able to move forward, rather than giving up and becoming disheartened. Perhaps, as the year draws to a close, you realize that your current role has impacted your well-being. For example, you no longer love what you do. Or, perhaps you have yet to achieve your full potential in your current role. Whatever has made you realize that it’s time for a change, the sooner you address whatever it is that is causing you to feel unsatisfied in your current situation, the quicker you will feel happier with your professional life.