How to “Boss UP” Just 4 Easy Steps…
If you’ve ever wanted to “Boss Up”, then you’re reading the right article. That’s because you are about to discover my easy 4-step method for reaching higher levels of success in your career or business.
And the good news is that this method works even if you don’t have all the experience, degrees and letters behind your name that some try to convince you are necessary to be “successful”. Success is determined by… yup, you guessed it – YOU!
Read on…
Step 1: Determine “What’s Your Why?”
Many people who are just starting out on the path to determining how to get to their “next level” don’t even realize that they need to do this step before they can create a plan of action – which actually comes last. That’s why a lot of people who try to find a new career, get a promotion, or start a business end up failing – they’re simply missing this crucial step.
So, the first thing you need to do is understand your WHY. Map out, through journaling or some other process, why the goal you have set for yourself is important. Most people I’ve worked with over the years have actually needed to focus on this area intently. Some people desire to move to the next level because they desire an increase in money, for others it may be tied to prestige, and for you true servant leaders out there – it could be to give back (or give more) to your community. Regardless of the reason, spending some time defining the WHY will only help strengthen the execution of your plan.
You’ll find that this part of the process goes much more smoothly if you apply these tips and tricks:
• Try imagining what your “next level” looks like. Write down everything you can think of that describes you in that situation
• Consider your current situation and what you would have to do differently at the next level
• Make special note of the things that inspire you, and the things that may challenge you once you get there
Once you have a clear understanding of your WHY then you can move on to the next step…
Step 2: Take Your “Personal Inventory”
The next thing you need to do is really take a look at WHO you are. A personal inventory is a process where you take an honest look at who you are – what you believe, your mindset, your skills and any barriers you may have that block you from moving forward in life. All of us have strengths and opportunities for growth. Here’s a quick example of what I mean. Occasionally, I clean out my closets (probably not as often as I should). Sometimes there are some really great things in there that just don’t fit anymore. And on the other hand, I always have some things that still look great and fit great. A personal inventory is just like cleaning out your closet. You hold on to the things you need and love, and you let go of the things that no longer serve you or “fit”.
When I first started personal inventories, I made a lot of mistakes. And now that I’ve helped others do it, I see a lot of people have a tendency to make the same mistakes. So let me share with you the top 3 mistakes and how to avoid them:
• An inventory is not just focused on the things (mindsets, beliefs or barriers) we no longer need. It is important to note that just like in the closet scenario, some things still fit, and things that don’t – just don’t need to take up space in our mental closet.
• Holding on the things (thoughts) that no longer serve you, because you think you might need them again in the future. Not wanting to forgive someone for something that happened a zillion years ago is a prime example.
•Only wanting to be honest at the surface level, which is like cleaning out ½ of your closet and leaving the other half full of things you really don’t need.
Step 3: Strengthen your “Super Powers”
At this step you’re likely to notice your thoughts about what you want to do next are getting more clear. So, what you need to do is define and strengthen your gifts (or in other words – all of the great things you can still fit from cleaning out your closet).
I still remember the first time I was doing this step and trying to hold on to some negative beliefs about myself. I knew that one of my gifts, or super powers if you will, was the ability to influence others through sharing my experiences. At first, while I knew it was a strength, I was scared to say it confidently, because I was afraid people would mistake my confidence for conceit. After going through this process several times however, I am absolutely sure that being able to acknowledge and be proud of my super powers helps others walk in theirs.
Step 4: Go back to your plan and Execute!
Now go back to the dream you have and start crafting a plan on how to execute it. You are clear about why you are desiring to level-up, you got rid of everything you no longer need, you have honed your strengths – and now it’s time to move.
One crucial tip: Build a circle of support as you execute your plan. Find those supporters who will help hold you accountable for the milestones towards your goals, those who will root for you no matter what and some one who can connect you to resources you may need along the way!
And there you have it – a simple 4 -step method for getting to the next level in your career or business. Now that you know how to “Boss Up”, there’s just one thing left for you to do: CELEBRATE!
So get to it, and soon you too will be stepping into your next level!