​Having a rewarding career depends upon whether or not you know how to follow your own vision of career success. Otherwise, you’re likely to spend your days trying to live up to the expectations of others or mindlessly drifting from one job to the next.
 
Of course, success itself means different things to different people. For some, it’s a matter of earning more money and climbing the corporate ladder. For others, it may mean to learn how to step down the corporate ladder. In the end, it’s more about stretching their skills and contributing to society.
 
Make your work life more satisfying and build accomplishments that you can be proud of. Use this checklist to plan your future and put your plans into action.

1. Identify your strengths. Think about your talents and how you can apply them. Do you like working with numbers or do you have a passion for design? Browse online for aptitude tests (i.e.: Career Change Quiz) that will lead you to your desired career or help your create a side hustle that matches your personality.
   
2. Set specific goals. Create objectives that will motivate you and allow you to set a  goal for professional development. Give yourself realistic short- and long-term targets that are challenging but feasible.
   
3. Address obstacles. You may find that you need some additional resources to complete your goals. Figure out what’s holding you back and how you’ll overcome it.
   
4. Consider your brand. What makes you unique? Personal Branding will help you to market yourself. You’ll know what you stand for and the audience that you’re trying to reach.
   
5. Think ahead. Career planning is an ongoing process that requires more than keeping your resume updated. Use a Career Planner. Review your job status regularly to decide if it’s time to make a change.
   
6. Write it down. Use your career development planner and write down your thoughts on paper. You’ll be more likely to keep your strategy in mind instead of letting it get buried under daily events.

1. Manage your time. Block out space in your calendar for activities essential to your goals.  Do Time Management apps help your productivity? If yes,  be sure to use them. You may need to cut down on distractions like watching TV or shopping online.
   
2. Maximize your network. Lean how to revive your personal network. Build a strong network where you can share practical and moral support. Ask others for help when you need it. Be generous with sharing information and referrals.
   
3. Learn from others. Never stop learning. Benefit from the experience of others. Find a mentor or shadow a star employee at your company.
   
4. Build your qualifications. Seek opportunities for education and training. Take certification courses online and check out the adult education catalog at your nearest community college.
   
5. Increase your visibility. Fast-track your career with personal branding. Promote yourself by volunteering for committees at the local chapter of your professional association. Write articles for your company website or publish your own industry blog. Learn how to make your resume stand out from others.
   
6. Negotiate compensation. Lean how to negotiate salary. The art of negotiation is an important skill. Use a guide to salary transparency laws in your state  when you’re exploring a new line of work or waiting for job offer. Talk with your employer about fringe benefits that are important to you, such as your employment rights as a parent.
   
7. Take risks. If you want to excel at work, you’ll need to consider leaving your comfort zone. Focus on gradual growth you can sustain, and the small victories will add up. Deliver a presentation at a staff meeting to prepare for addressing the crowd at your annual convention. Learn how to give a great speech.
   
8. Stay positive. Your professional career may last 50 years or more, so a cheerful attitude will help you to persevere. Believe it or not, your negative attitude impacts your career. Look on the bright side of difficult situations and learn how to laugh at yourself.