And who wants to think about work in the few hours we have off?
Entry level
What do I want to be good at?
This is a version of whats your passion?
except that it takes the money-making part of the equation into account.
So nail down what it is you actually want to be good at.
What skills do I need to be good at it?
What can I do to position myself in the best place possible?
When youre new, it doesnt matter much what you accomplished in college or internships.
Nows the time to actually prove yourself and set yourself up for success.
And if you start thinking about that early on, it will be easier to do so.
What resources does your company offer for ongoing education?
What networking opportunities can you take advantage of?
Is there a manager you’re free to take out for coffee who could become a possible mentor?
What role does work play in my life?
Jones goes on to say that its perfectly ok if workisntyour passionits just a means to an end.
So ask yourself what role you want it to play in your life.
Decide what sort of life you want and what role work will play in it, says Jones.
Midlevel
What tasks invigorate me, and what tasks drain me?
Maybe you enjoy research and putting power point presentations together, but loathe client meetings.
Maybe its the other way around.
Do I want to be a manager?
This plays into the first question, but deserves its own bullet.
What work will you be giving up?
On the flip side, its totally fine tonotwant to be management.
So be honest with yourself and what you want.
Am I progressing in my career the way I imagined I would?
Are you happy with your current trajectory?
Is the path youre on still the one you want?
If so, great!
If not, its time to recalibrate.
Here are some resources on how to do that:Write your own biographyor try thisone hour writing exercise.
Is this career allowing me to do whats important?
Senior level
In what ways can I still grow?
Just because youre at the top doesnt mean theres no room for improvement.
Might you want to start your own business or side hustle as a new challenge?
What legacy do I want to leave?
Later in your career, reflect on what youve done and in what ways youve helped others.
Were you a mentor?
Did you want to be?
Consider your reputation and what you want to leave behind when you retire.
Its never too late to leave a lasting, positive impression.
