As human beings, we are constantly striving to better ourselves - to sharpen our skills and make ourselves more effective at home and at work. 

But once we accomplish our current objective, how do we decide what to work on next? How do we make sure we are always moving in the right direction?

I find it’s often best to start by considering your “constituents” - the people you most want to help or support - and figuring out what actions would be most beneficial to them.

Depending on your circumstances and your priorities in life, your constituents could be:

• The human race

• Your country

• Your city

• Your work colleagues

• Your customers

• Your friends, or

• Your family

In some situations, you might be able to work towards a goal that would be beneficial to multiple constituents. 

For instance, if you decide to work on your listening skills, you will be better able to connect with your friends and family. You will also find it easier to communicate with your colleagues and help your customers find the products and services they need.

Similarly, if you take steps to improve your financial literacy, you will be better able to prepare for retirement at home and be much more effective at budget management at work.

Of course, you don’t have to focus on several constituents at once. Sometimes, it is much better to zero in on a single person or group.

For example, if your career is your priority at the moment, you may decide to learn more about a specific aspect of your industry. Achieving that goal could land you a promotion or a new job that will then give you the flexibility to focus on some of your other constituents.

No matter what you decide to work on next, I would highly encourage you to put together a short action plan before you get started. Doing so will substantially increase the odds of you achieving your goal.

You can, of course, put an action plan together on your own - but if you need a little help from an experienced coach, please don’t hesitate to schedule a call with me. I’d be happy to assist! 

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About The Author

Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense. 

Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.