15 self-assessment questions to ask yourself

With every new year comes a slew of resolutions and self-reflecting. What better time to evaluate your career objectives, as well? It may even coincide with annual reviews and bonuses, but even so, it’s important to check in and give some thought about how happy you are at work.

Here are 15 questions to ask yourself about your career.

• Do you like your boss?

• Do you feel like you are part of a team?

• Are you respected by the dentist?

• Are you respected by the patients?

• Are you respected by our co-workers?

• Are you compensated well for the work you do?

• Is your job close to home?

• Is there flexibility if you have a doctor’s appointment?

• Is there encouragement for ongoing education?

• Is there an open-door policy with your boss?

• Do you enjoy coming to work?

• Do you feel that you are being listened to?

• Is it a hostile workplace?

• Are there ethical issues in the office that are making you uncomfortable?

• If you leave this job, are there other opportunities for you in your community?

It can be hard to look at your life and give serious thought to if you are happy. Happy is such an elusive term since it means different things for different people. For one person, happiness might be a steady paycheck and job security. But, for another person, it might be working in an environment where you can laugh and be yourself.

Evaluating your situation will help you plan for the coming year. Here are some additional questions to ask yourself to improve any issues you’re facing.

• Can you improve your relationship with your co-workers?

• Are there any opportunities to increase your responsibilities and salary at work?

• Do you want to go back to school?

• Does your boss know what frustrations you are dealing with on the job?

• Do you have solutions to problems but need the confidence to address them?

• Is it time to look for a new job?

Often when people feel trapped, it’s easy to overlook what they can control. The truth is that we basically have control over ourselves and our own behavior. If you hate your job and have no desire to solve the problem, maybe it is time for a change. If there is ongoing conflict, look at what you have done to try to address and resolve the problem. If you feel that all attempts for problem resolution have been explored, come up with a backup plan. If you want to make more money, talk to your boss. See what opportunities are available at work for promotions.

My point is to remind you to take control of your career. If you are happy, that is wonderful. Many of you love what you are doing and where you are doing it. For some who are frustrated, remember this-no one is going to hand you anything. (Cynical perhaps, but true.) You make your own destiny. It takes guts, hard work, and sacrifices, but the rewards of achieving your goal make it all worthwhile. Do a self-assessment and explore your situation. Then, just do it. You got this.

Wishing all of you a happy and healthy 2020!

I’d like to hear about your self-assessment. Email me at diana2@discussdirectives.com.