DERAILED - READY TO GET BACK ON TRACK?

,Do you ever feel like you’ve done all the right things, but feel like you’re having a difficult time finding purpose? Have you ever gotten derailed and feel your normal focus isn’t there? Don’t worry - even the best of leaders can hit this plateau every now and then. When you feel like you’re stuck, many times it’s a call for reflection - time to take a step back and assess the current situation to see if you’re moving in the right direction toward your goals. An assessment of the present is necessary to find out if you are doing things that are progressing… or just going through the motions.

Chances are you’ve either lost focus on your goals, your goals have changed, or you’ve just stopped doing the things that make you successful. Sometimes we find that our goals change, and we need to course correct. Most of my life I have believed in the motto: Do what’s in front of you to do and it will take you to greater things.  But this really only works if you have identified clear goals. I am a proponent of Klauser’s method to Write it Down, Make it Happen. Writing down clear and precise goals brings clarity and form, furthermore, it is a means of commitment.

So how exactly do you get back on track?  First, you must choose the right track for you, and get on it. I know, much easier said than done. A practical exercise is to make a list of the actions you know keep you engaged, and infuse those in your everyday routine. Do them daily - even when you don’t feel like doing them - and eventually that drive will return. Here are 5 tips that contribute to keeping me on track: 

1. Limit screen time:  yes, we all need a little fun and entertainment in our daily lives – and I love a good TV series, and keeping up with friends and family on social media. But, when it inhibits your positive progress and becomes a toxic distraction, then it can become unhealthy. Take care of the necessary actions first that help you meet your goals, then reward yourself. Manage media, don’t let it manage you. 
2. Feed your brain:  Read a good book that inspires self-awareness. While I love immersing myself into the 18th century in Outlander or the futuristic universe in The Expanse, I regularly remind myself that I cannot remain there and improve my skills in practical leadership at the same time.  It is important that I always be honing these skills, both personally and professionally. Alongside my fun reads, I usually keep a development book that’s focused on personal growth within reach too.  
3. Be a joiner: Volunteer, join a club, serve on a committee. When I’m engaged and interacting with others, I am at my best. Attend a seminar or a conference in your trade, and network with other successful people. Subscribe to newsletters and reputable blogs to stay connected with industry trends and other professionals. 
4. Take care of yourself: Be active, make healthy food choices, and get adequate sleep. Hit the gym, take a leisurely walk after dinner or work in a brisk run on your treadmill (good time to watch those Netflix binges!). I always ensure to work in a massage every now and then, or schedule that needed vacation just to unplug and relax. It’s important to let your brain and body take a break too. 
5. Invest in yourself: A new suit or nice pair of shoes can be an investments in you and your career. A professional wardrobe can be built over time. Start slow and shop the sales, but trading a few Starbucks trips for a nice pair of shoes, will provide more value than the lattes. Buy that amazing laptop case or the exquisite fountain pen you’ve been wanting – it will show professionalism, and can help make you feel empowered and ready for the job too.

Balance is the key. Anything done to extreme is, well… extreme. How do I find time to do all of this? We make time for the things that are important…. therefore, the things we do, then become important in our lives.  How much do you value you?

---