The #1 Way to Improve Your Career + Life

In the past few years, or almost decade, I’ve read more books than you can imagine on the topics of Productivity, Personal Development, Career, etc. And in all of the reading and courses that I’ve taken, there is one concept that has really stood out to me..what is it?

Clarity

If you want to organize your life, start by getting clear on what you want and what is important to you. It’s so difficult to make steady progress in any area of life if you’re not really sure about the end goal.

In my experience, the vast number of options in the world today makes life feel really complicated. Wherever we turn we have friends, family, and colleagues asking us to do something. With (mostly) good intentions, we find ourselves struggling in multiple directions, just trying to keep up with everything that is being thrown at us.

However, there is actually a better way.

I know it’s hard to believe, but it doesn’t have to be so difficult.

The way out of the madness, is finding clarity.

Why is Clarity so Important?

Clarity changes the game because when you are clear on your priorities and goals, it’s VERY easy to say no to everything else. It’s common for people to walk through life half heatedly, saying yes to all the things that come their way.

I don’t know about you, but I feel like I spend a lot of time making decisions. Not always “big” decisions, but still decisions. From choosing an outfit in the morning, deciding what work projects are most important, figuring out what to make for dinner, etc.

Given that we have so many decisions to make, it’s important that we don’t spend time pondering or going back and forth on what matters most.

Also, wouldn’t you rather dive deep on a few key areas that TRULY light you up? Rather than doing a million things that are mediocre and not really that interesting to you?

How to Get Clear

1. Make a list of EVERYTHING you have going on in your life

Work projects + responsibilities
Volunteer commitments
Hobbies + side hustles
School + courses

2. Look at each area, and pick the 1 thing that’s MOST important

If this is difficult for you, look at it this way, what would you regret NOT doing?
Would you regret not pursuing the volunteer commitment you love?
Would you regret NOT going back to school?

3. Remember, these don’t have to be your priorities FOREVER

Your priorities can change throughout your life.
If you are a student, right now, school is a priority, but once you graduate, you can choose a different priority.

4. Let go of the rest

The best thing about getting clear on your priorities is that you can authentically say no when people ask you to do something.
If you know that it’s a no, then be honest and say that.

To Sum Up:

I know that saying no is often something that we’re not taught to do. Especially as women, it can be difficult to disappoint people. However, remember that it’s better to say no upfront than to say yes and regret it later on.

The Best Way to Improve Your Career + Life