WHAT MAKES FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY?
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The biggest mistake executives make is to head into career transition with no thought or plan. Much like your working days you need to plan your work and work your plan. While every executive is different and many will tell you what their perfect day might look like, it is important that you create your own definition and learn to live by it. Whatever your definition is, make sure you know your peak performance periods so you can schedule your most challenging tasks in that timeframe. Start your day early dressed in business attire. After an hour of doing follow-up activities, you might schedule a morning coffee meeting to energize yourself to get out the door. Be mindful of becoming a slave to your computer or any other meaningless task. Few have landed their next successful career opportunity while sitting behind their home-office desk. Make it a habit to schedule your office admin time either before 9:00 am or after 6:00 pm. This way most of your day can consist of networking (face-to-face, telephone, or group meetings). You may also want to consider time for regular exercise to release stress as well as time to develop your expertise (technical, professional, and soft skills). Don’t hesitate to mix things up from time to time because variety really can be the spice in your life.
Curt’s Keeper:
Many Work, play, educate … make this your “perfect” day plan!
In2Win! Afterthoughts
The Perfect Day for Senior Business Professionals in Career Transition
Career transitions, especially for senior business professionals, can be an unsettling phase. The usual busy workday structure that you’re accustomed to is gone, and in its place is a seemingly vast expanse of time. However, this is a golden opportunity to strike the right balance between work and play, ensuring that your career transition becomes a period of personal and professional growth.
1. Start with Structure: Begin your day early with a routine. Set aside time for job-searching activities like updating your CV, networking, attending webinars, and taking online courses. Allocate specific hours so you can be consistent, just as you would in a corporate setting.
2. Play is Essential: Remember the old adage, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy?” The same holds true for senior professionals. Engage in activities you previously didn’t have time for. This could be a hobby, sport, or simply taking leisurely walks. These activities rejuvenate the mind, keep you active, and can open unexpected networking opportunities.
3. Balance is Key: While it’s essential to be proactive in seeking the next opportunity, it’s equally crucial to maintain mental and emotional well-being. Set boundaries to ensure that your job-seeking efforts don’t become overwhelming. Balance is the key to maintaining a positive outlook, which is invaluable in any career transition.
In summary, career transitions offer senior professionals a unique chance to reshape their daily lives. By focusing on both working and playing, you’ll discover a newfound balance that will not only propel your next career move but also enrich your personal life.
It’s up to you to design your perfect day but here is a suggestion if you need one. Your commitment is to work, play and educate. You always have the option to create yourself a 4-day search week! Job search should not be a jail term!
7:30 – Wake Up and Work Out.
8:15 – Take a Shower and dress business casual as you would for the office. No, you don’t need to wear a dress of tie!
8:30 – Eat a healthy breakfast, outside if possible.
9:00 – 12:00 – Job search, online and apply. Do not make the application process several hours per application.
12:00 – 1:00 – Eat Lunch
1:00 – 2:00 – Learn/Enhance a skill. Remember the Learning Library and Online Training Centre are at your disposal.
2:00 – 5:00 – Job search, online and apply. Do not make the application process several hours per application.
5:00 – 6:00 – Organize for tomorrow
6:00 – 8:30 – Dinner/Family Time. You must commit to giving your family a piece of you in good spirits.
8:30 – 10:00 – Follow up emails, Admin tasks. Leave your day free and clear!
Weekends and holidays are at your disposal but remember employers will notice your commitment.
Books Worth Reading
Helpful Links to Consider
Have a career question? Ask Curt
In2Win Audio Clips
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