A lot of the time, people feel like their career is all about getting the job done. They correlate this with success, which might be accurate on some level, but it’s definitely not the same thing. Many things make you a successful person aside from your performance at work. Strong relationships with peers, respect from your employers, and good work habits are a huge part of what makes a career successful. Knowing that this article will discuss the 6 essential habits that you should practice in your workplace to boost your career. But first, let’s have a look at what workplace habits encompass.

What Is a Workplace Habit?

Habits are repeated actions over a long period of time. When an action is repeated over and over again, there comes a point where it becomes a regular practice. This is when that action can be defined as a habit.

There are plenty of benefits that you can reap if you develop positive workplace habits. This should help you shine in the eyes of your employers, boost your career goals faster, remain task-oriented and focused, and maximize your productivity.

Habits are not skills you are born with – they are developed over time. This means that, with a little effort and persistence, you can turn an action into a habit. Whether you do it by setting reminders on your phone or motivating yourself with morning self-talk, a bit of dedication and persistence can go a long way.

Some things are not easy to turn into habits but do not despair. James Clear’s guide on developing habits in life recommends that you start small, break up habits into chunks, and increase them in very small ways. It can take some time, but if you develop the right habits, it will definitely be worth it.

6 great habits for a more successful career

Many different things can help a person’s career depending on their goals and where and what they work. However, some things are generally good for any workplace. Here are the most essential habits that every professional should have to thrive in the workplace.

1. Try corporate volunteering

If your company gives you a chance to do this, jump at the opportunity. Corporate volunteering is a modern business initiative that can help you grow as a professional, boost your career – and grow as a person. Most don’t accept such challenges because they aren’t legally obliged to do so, failing to understand how fruitful this can be for their personal development and their career.

According to SHRM, more than 25% of today’s companies offer some form of corporate volunteering to their employees. Companies attempt to lift people and improve the world – as well as their image. This is a big part of it.

If you aim to work at a socially responsible company, make positive changes, and improve yourself on a personal level, you should definitely consider joining a volunteering program as the benefits of corporate volunteering are limitless. This should showcase your interest in the work, boost your skills, and make you feel more accomplished as a professional.

2. Create routines for yourself

Habits and routines are similar in a way, but they are entirely different. Habits are actions we do regularly, while routines are a regular way of doing things in order. In other words, a routine is “made of several habits”.

Having routines at work is crucial for getting things done and a sure way to boost your career.  Unless your work is different every day, which is highly unlikely, you’ll need to do the same things to get things done. Basically, you need routines to remain productive.

How do you create a routine for your workdays?

For starters, you need to decide on the routine you need to set to get your job done well. Some visual reminders might help encourage you – so don’t be afraid to place them around you. Any routine you pick should be based on habits you already have developed.

Think about it – which habits can be useful for you to fulfill your goals and complete your tasks? Is there anything you’d like to change about your daily practices? Consider your ideal working place, the time of day when you’re most productive, your skills and your weaknesses, etc.

Next, create a list of things that you’d like to turn into your daily routine. When you have this information in front of you, you can start working on your new routine. This can include handling the most complicated tasks in your most productive hours to complete them faster or scheduling your breaks at your least productive time.

Once you figure it out, all that’s left to do is stick to the plan. That’s how routines are created.

3. Be a team player

Being a team player is fun, saves time, and is one of the most valued qualities of employees these days. Most companies won’t even consider hiring you if you aren’t a good team player.

How can you make this a habit?

It’s pretty simple if you’re a communicative and warm person. But, if you struggle with it or aren’t accustomed to working with others, think of it this way – it benefits you A LOT!

For starters, working in a team saves you tons of time. Doing things on your own and with the help of others is not the same. You’ll be able to complete things faster if you have help.

Working in a team can also be really fun. If you have a group of skilled teammates, this kills the dullness in the workplace. Working on your own can be tiring and repetitive. We all need social contact in our lives.

Next, this keeps you informed of the latest happenings. Teammates discuss matters with each other. You can learn a lot from them, and you can teach them a lot. If you miss out on teamwork, you’re missing out on learning opportunities and information, also.

Finally, being a team person in a company that encourages teamwork brings you closer to promotions and helps you stand out in the eyes of your employer. Isn’t this where you want your career to go?

4. Always be punctual

Punctuality is not just about arriving at the office on time. This should not be an issue for you – ever. Make a habit of being on time or even better, a bit before the shift starts. Being late makes you seem irresponsible.

When you make a habit to be punctual, you’re creating many habits in the meantime. You’re waking up at the same time every morning, having your breakfast on schedule, catching the same train to work, and meeting the same people who get to work at the same time as you.

But, your job does not stop here. Punctuality is not just about arriving on time. It’s also about being punctual with your tasks, your emails, your reports, and your updates.

Some tips on making this a habit include:

  • Set reminders in advance until you get the hang of it
  • Plan for your day the night before, or for your week on Sundays
  • Track how long it takes you to complete the tasks

5. Work on your development

Your personal and professional development should not cease when you land a good job – or a promotion. It is your job as a professional to thrive and develop further. If an opportunity comes your way to learn something more or upgrade your current knowledge – grab it. Your strengths are what gets to boost your career, and what helps you achieve your workplace goals.

Even if your company does not offer you growth opportunities, find them yourself. Tell your supervisor that you’d like to develop in a certain area. Look for courses and training, and consider what you can use to boost your performance at work.

6. Learn to manage your stress levels

Being stressed all the time is the worst habit you can have in the workplace. This can affect your productivity and motivation, make others uncomfortable around you, and ruin your reputation as a professional.

Stress is not good for you on a personal level, also. It can cause you endless health problems and ruin your day even outside the office. Dealing with it is essential if you want to live a healthy and happy life, as well as succeed in your career.

There are plenty of ways to manage stress these days. You can use meditation and breathing exercises, do physical exercise regularly, get breaks to refill and clear your mind, and talk to a professional if you are dealing with some problems.

Wrapping up

Regardless of what you work –or where – it is up to you to develop quality habits and routines that will improve your performance and boost your career. With the right decisions, some planning, and dedication, you can thrive in the workplace and constantly improve your career.

In the end, it all comes down to where you want to get with your career, and what you’re prepared to give to get there. Creating good habits is not just about succeeding at work, but also about living a healthy and happy lifestyle. That being said, set your priorities and goals, create a habit plan, and start working on it as soon as possible.