January has a reputation for being high pressure – new plans, goals, resolutions. But if the last few years have taught us anything it is that not everything needs a reset buttons and life happens in spite of the best laid plans.
So instead of “New Year, new me” this year we are leaning into something a bit calmer.
Less pressure, more pause. For many the start of the new year can feel more tiring than inspiring – work has been busy and December has left us a bit depleted and fighting off the festive bugs. So let us ease back in this year rather than promising dramatic change.
- Taking stock rather than planning
- Noticing what is already working
- Letting go of what isn’t rather than striving for new ideas.
Careers don’t get reinvented overnight. In recruitment we often see people who feel they should want a new career in January but can then rush into something without true reflection. True career pivots could start with
- Having honest conversations at work
- Asking for flexibility
- Learning something new in your spare time
Small adjustments count. If you do want to think about what’s next, it doesn’t need to be a five year plan. Start by:
- Updating your CV
- Reconnecting with people in your network
- Exploring voluntary options to gain experience in a new field
- exploring what is out there without having to press “apply”
- Deciding what it is you don’t want is as powerful as deciding what you do.
For employers, January can be about reflection too. Taking the time to
- Reflect n last year’s hires.
- Think about the broader skills gaps and thinking outside the box
- Improving processes and retention plans
- Ensuring the employees you do have are happy and productive
So if this January feels slower than expected – perhaps that is no bad thing. There is time to reflect and move with intention when the time is right. And we will be here when you are ready to connect.
