Jan 02, 2017 10:31 AM EST By Audri Taylors, UniversityHerald Reporter

2017 is already here. If you feel short of some of your goals in 2016, it is only imperative to reflect on the things that have gone wrong and things that could have been done better. Now is the time to take control of your life, most especially your career. If 2016 was not a very successful year yet, you just have to learn some lessons so you do not make the same mistakes again. And more importantly, you have to have a solid plan to ensure that this year is going to be your year for a successful career.

Here are some tips to get you started.

Know what you want to achieve

This is one of the first key steps when it comes to finding success. Define your aspirations so that you know how to get there, according to Forbes. Ask yourself where you want to be in a couple of years from now.

Create your plan after you identified your goal

After being able to clearly define your goals, you should have a plan and a strategy in order to get you there. This should serve as your guide in order for you to have a clear direction on the path you are taking to get you to your career aspirations. It should also help you get back on track in times when you feel like falling astray.

Attach deadlines to your goals

You don't have forever to achieve your goals which is why you have to make sure you set a timeline for yourself, according to Kevin Harrington. In order to achieve your long term goals, short term goals should be in place and deadlines should be attached to them.

Stop making excuses

You cannot wait for your dreams to just happen, because only you have the power to make them happen. You cannot keep on blaming people and circumstances for what is happening in your life. You always have the power to take control of your life and start reaching for your aspirations.

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