Finding out whether or not you’re on the right track is a difficult thing to do. It isn’t the same as being on the wrong track, where it’s pretty easy to see. The right direction may still be filled with hard times & difficult decisions, but you’ll still be able to see where you’re going. Here are a few tips & questions to ask yourself to help guide your way.

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The simplest thing to think about is your happiness with your work. Most people think they won’t ever feel happy with their job, or that they’re not supposed to. It doesn’t have to be like that, though. Jobs don’t have to make you feel unhappy all the time. They should feel rewarding as well. Hopefully, your work makes you feel a wide range of positive emotions at least most of the time.

Past Vs. Present

A good way of gaining perspective on your career trajectory is by looking at your past. What were you doing 2, 5, or 10 years ago? Has your financial & mental health situation improved since then? If your work history has even small milestones and a clear track upward, this shows that your career is on a good path. Even better, if your job history is filled with promotions, new titles, pay raises, and new skills & certifications.

What does your future hold for your career? That’s anyone’s guess. However, thinking about your future can help you establish new goals, even if those goals might change. Where do you see yourself in 2, 5, or 10 years? Look at your current position in your career, and identify whether or not you can find growth from there. If you can, you’re in a good spot for future growth and opportunity.

If you’re not particularly looking for any growth, and you are comfortable where you are, this is also a good thing. Some people think they need to constantly move upwards in order to feel content with their career. That doesn’t need to be the case for everyone, though. If you feel like you’ve reached where you want, and need, to be in your career, good for you! There’s nothing wrong with that. Just ensure that you’ve not fully closed the door to new opportunities.