How to Set Career Goals for Success

Setting goals helps people to live from the future rather than dwell on the past. Often, setting goals is what sets successful people apart, and allows them to fulfill their dreams. In other words, it is more difficult to fulfill your dreams if you don't have any.
Having goals also creates a sense of purpose and positive feelings. For many people, being able to check things off of a list actually releases endorphins in their brains.

Of course, it is even wiser to remain flexible in your goals. Setting high expectations on oneself and not being able to attain them can be very discouraging. It can also prevent one from reaching or setting other more realistic goals. Also, by remaining flexible and open to other options, you are more likely to recognize opportunities and take advantage of these opportunities as they come along.

According to a recent article posted by CareerBuilder.com, there are several different goals that can be oriented towards a specific period of life. For example, in your 20's, it is imperative to establish a positive work record. You most likely will not be in your dream job at this point, however, as you continue to learn new skills and make contacts, having an excellent work record will set you apart for future jobs you seek to take.

Also in your 20's, networking is one of your most valuable assets. The more contacts you make and skills you acquire, the more impressive that resume will begin to look. Also, working references are a big part of that resume and any job application. In any job, seek to look for ways to lead, learn and assist with new responsibilities. Ask your supervisor or boss for goals if they have not already given you some. Be open to constructive criticism and new input. It is often in our 20's that we want to have everything figured out and show the rest of the world and work force that we know what we're doing. However, that simply isn't the case. The 20's are a great time for learning and gaining valuable work experience that will help launch your career. Building a good reputation in your first job is important because those employers will continue to be valuable references and resources for years to come.

In your 30s, an important goal to focus in on is to become a leader. People often transition into their first management position in their 30s. They switch from being a worker-bee to an emerging leader. This transition can often be stressful and taxing, however, it is necessary to ensure a future career which will continue to grow and develop. The goal of becoming a leader is to get recognized for the work you have done and use the acquired skills in a more focused way. It is important to document your accomplishments so that you have proof of your hard work and leadership capabilities and experience.

In your 40's, it is important to get serious about your earning power. Many people view this age as the time when the leadership roles they have been eyeing for the past two decades are much more tangible. This is also the time of mid-life crises. People often begin to question their careers. This is a good time to evaluate where your career is headed and evaluate your work-life balance.

It is important for people in their 40's to ask themselves what will make them feel successful? Would it be occupying a high-level position within your company or field? Or perhaps it would be to have the flexibility to spend more time with your family? Many people in their 40's also begin to consider early retirement or reaching their full earning potential. During the 40's, it is important to evaluate career goals and goals for success and realign that career path accordingly.

When people reach their 50's, it is a good idea to envision their future. People are typically well established in their careers and are looking forward to retirement. Even if retirement is not quite yet tangible, it is during the 50's that people are typically planning for that next stage of life.
It is important for people in their 50's to set a timeline. It is important to be aware of financial goals, savings and investments. It is also a good time to be thinking about a second career, or perhaps a job that would continue to meet financial needs and goals.

In your 60s, it is time to reap what you have sown. It is during this time of life that many people slow down and begin to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Some people seek final educational goals they never had the chance to attain. Also, many people take advantage of travel opportunities and time to spend with family.