I am sure you have already thought about what you want for yourself for the New Year. Health, happiness and success are certainly up there with subheadings that include making more money, getting more clients, receiving that promotion, meeting Mr. or Ms. Right, staying healthy, exercising more, having more fun, etc.

I thought I would like to share my list with you – all under the major heading of: 
Do What You Love and Love What You Do!

1. Innovate: The only way for you to do this is to keep learning, growing, and being open to new ways to solve old problems. One thing I have learned as a career professional is that change is a constant. I love what I do and one reason why I am passionate about my chosen profession is the ability to be creative, to keep things new and interesting.

2. Collaborate: You may think you are great at everything (and maybe you are) but the best way to be successful in your career or business is to collaborate with those who can provide value in areas   a)you may not enjoy  b)you may not be as good at as they are    c)that take time away from work that you want to do    d)that take time away from work that keeps you on brand, on target, and profitable.

And besides, it’s more fun to collaborate, share the burden, learn from each other, while gaining the benefit of focusing on what you really want to do.

3. Build Your Tribe: Find others who you can support and who can support you and connect them with each other. The more connections you make for them, the stronger your tribe and the greater the bonds between all of you.

4. Define Your Brand: Be clear on what your value added is, on how you want to be perceived by others, and on being authentic in everything you do. Stay on brand and you will remain focused on your goals.

5. Take A Stand: Stand out by taking a stand. Be clear on what you believe in, what you offer, and why. Strong brands are not wishy washy. Give opinions that are based in fact and experience and you will attract those who admire you for it.

6. Reach High: Set your goals so they are a reach and not a slam dunk. Keep the rules for goals setting in mind: Keep goals Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-frame specific.

7. Give Back: Always look for ways to help those who need it. If you are fortunate enough to be working or own a business that is doing well, look for ways to help others on their way up. Also, helping others through charities is another great way to give back. So give, give often, give willingly, and give of yourself.

Feel free to add to this list and if you feel inclined, share with all of us as part of your giving back.

Happy New Year!

I look forward to continuing our conversation in 2011.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Utilizing her experience of over 25 years Mary Rosenbaum helps careerists and entrepreneurs position themselves so they can stand out from the competition. Get her free report Top Strategies for Getting Visible and Getting Ahead.

Follow me on Twitter @Careersguru

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