While it may be tempting to focus entirely on fitting into your new work environment, it’s important not to lose sight of your personal goals. Your new job may be the biggest thing on your mind in the first months, but it’s important to take a step back to assess what’s really important.
Learning and growing in your new job
Get the most out of each day. Try and learn something new on every shift. Shake up your schedule. Make new contacts. Explore alternative ideas. The more you work to make your job interesting, the more you’ll get out of your time on the job.
Don’t expect to be perfect. In other words, don’t pressure yourself to be a pro right away. Say you’re working to become a hairdresser, and you can’t seem to master the complete art of highlighting. Instead of giving up, try to learn a little every day. Memorize one colour combination on Monday; practise timing or application on Tuesday. Before long, you’ll be well on the way to experthood – and you’ll be far more likely to retain what you’ve learned.
Keeping balance between your personal and work life
Find balance. In the quest to be the best, many new employees devote too much energy into their new position and not enough on their personal lives. While it is important to pour extra effort into the workplace early on, it is essential to maintain balance with your personal life. Instead of spending your nights stressing about that project due tomorrow, go for a walk. Rather than rushing out the door, wake up an hour earlier and prepare yourself a wholesome breakfast. Taking time for yourself will improve your mental and physical well-being, making you a better (and more efficient!) employee.
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