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If you find yourself on an unsatisfying and unfulfilling path career-wise right now, pause for a bit before you drown yourself in what-ifs and regrets. Yes, you might have settled for less in the past. But as your career goals call you louder now to reach greater heights, it’s time to move forward and forgive yourself for the choices you’ve made before. Read on to find out how you can quit the habit of settling for less and make more empowering choices.

Reflect On Your Goals

Sit down and think about what you want to achieve in your career. Write them down so it’ll be easier later on to come up with actionable steps that lead to your goals.

Know What Excites You

Even if you got your dream job, it’s possible for that to lose its excitement and novelty as the years go by. It’s good to remember the projects that excited you the most, and to figure out what exactly made them so special to you. Recognizing what aspects of your work you love can inspire you again, which can guard against burnout.

Articulate Your Non-Negotiables

Being clear with your work non-negotiables will help you decide what jobs to take or which companies to join. Don’t worry about coming off “entitled” or picky. While it’s important to push yourself, it’s also healthy to set standards for things you’ll be doing and who you’ll be doing them for. You don’t want to enable what you find toxic!

Plan Your Career Trajectory

Now that you know what you want, it’s time to plan the smaller details. Make a five-year career timeline and plot out what you want to achieve, the things you need to do, and when to do it.

Keep Learning

An education or a new skill is the best thing you can give yourself. And today, this is a lot more doable and accessible thanks to online courses or classes. If you visit , you’ll find free online lessons in business, art, design, and communication, thanks to Cream Silk’s partnership with Edukasyon.ph.

Take heart and set your career goals as high as you want them. With a carefully outlined plan and actionable steps that you’re committed to, you’ll soon find yourself in a happier and more fulfilling position.