The new year is in full swing, and many professionals are taking time to define their goals and development plans for the months ahead. In the past, annual goals have often followed a predictable, linear path tied to traditional career progression. However, ongoing technological transformation and shifting workplace expectations have made a more agile, future-focused approach essential.
In a business environment that is constantly evolving, becoming comfortable with ambiguity – and open to ongoing learning – is key. As you set and refine your goals for this year, there are a few areas of focus that will help you prepare for whatever the future may bring.
Be forward-thinking.
How can you use this year to best set yourself up for a potentially unpredictable future? Focus on learning and skill development, rather than angling solely for an updated title. This may be the right time to seek out mentors or to step into a mentoring role yourself. These relationships support growth on both sides.
Also consider how you can deepen relationships with colleagues across your company. Are there opportunities to contribute beyond your core role, such as participating in cross-functional initiatives or emerging committees? Revisit longer-term career goals and adjust them as needed to ensure they remain relevant. Look for areas where recent transformation has created new needs or possibilities.
Embrace AI.
Uncertainty around AI’s role in the workplace is understandable. However, embracing it as a tool to support your work, skill development and efficiency can help you get ahead. Experiment with where AI may help streamline tasks or surface information more quickly, while remaining mindful that it does not replace human judgement, experience or creativity.
AI may provide immediate answers and data at your fingertips, yet effectively interpreting and applying this information is equally important. The ability to assess AI’s outputs critically, ask the right follow-up questions and determine appropriate next steps remains a differentiator. Professionals who can translate data into informed decisions and meaningful action will continue to stand out.
Strengthen essential soft skills.
Adaptability and resiliency are increasingly important as roles and expectations continue to shift. Leaders may find themselves guiding teams through uncertainty and providing clarity when there is no clear roadmap. At the same time, those earlier in their careers may benefit from learning how to navigate change, influence outcomes and make an impact without formal authority.
Across all career stages, skills like active listening, emotional intelligence and clear communication remain foundational. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues and mentors to identify opportunities for growth. Observe how effective communicators lead discussions, pose questions and manage complex situations. Partner with your manager and network to determine which skills will have the greatest impact today, along with which will support your next steps.
Give yourself grace.
The pace of change can be challenging. New technologies, evolving roles and ongoing pressure to stay current can create fatigue or self-doubt. If your professional progress doesn’t look the way you originally envisioned it, that’s okay. Focus on your ability to adapt, reassess your priorities and support those around you. Take advantage of new opportunities and reflect on the learnings and challenges you’ve faced. For many, it may be about redefining success and reinventing your professional identity within a shifting landscape.
As you develop your goals, take time to consider the skills that will help you remain effective, resilient and engaged. Be open in conversations with your manager, ask thoughtful questions and approach goal setting as an ongoing process that can evolve alongside a changing workplace.
This post was originally published in December 2020 and has been updated for relevance and accuracy.