7 Signs Your Career Is Going Exactly As It Should Be

Feeling doubtful about your career? You’re not alone. No matter how old and seasoned in your professional life you are, you’re bound to ask some questions. You might be seeing other people around you who seem to have it all together, and that makes you wonder if you’re behind.

While this is entirely normal, you should know that practically everyone feels this at some point, even if they seem wildly successful from the outside.

So, if you’re having those self-doubts, pay attention to these signs that you’re actually right on track.

1. You have a great work-life balance.

Your job is more than just work, but it also gives you the opportunity to enjoy your personal life — spend time with your family and friends, go to the gym, cook dinner or do whatever you do to decompress and simply enjoy your life.

2. You believe you’re being fairly compensated.

With so much emphasis on continually asking for that promotion, it’s easy to wonder if you’re earning enough. But if you believe your salary is fair for your level, skills and experience, then all signs point to yes.

3. There are plenty of learning opportunities at work — and you take advantage of them.

Your employer offers tuition reimbursements, in-house courses or seminars, access to external classes and/or other educational opportunities that encourage you to upskill and advance in your career. And you take advantage of them because you appreciate the chance to learn.

4. You consistently receive positive feedback.

This doesn’t mean you never make mistakes — everybody does. But the feedback you receive from your manager and colleagues is generally positive, and everyone you work with seems to respect you and value your contributions and opinions.

5. You’re being challenged.

You’re great at your job, but that doesn’t mean you’re not being challenged. In fact, you see these challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, so you don’t shy away from them. They keep things exciting. If you knew everything there was to know, the work would be boring.

6. You’ve been given opportunities to grow.

These opportunities for growth might be formal or informal. More formally, perhaps you’ve been promoted or given a raise. Informally, perhaps you’ve been named as the lead on an important project or, over time, taken on more and more responsibility. On top of that, you’ve sought out ways to grow in your career, and your manager has responded enthusiastically.

7. You genuinely like what you do.

At the end of the day, you love your work. You’re excited about both long-term and short-term opportunities at your current job and are consistently enthusiastic about your career. Your career will have ups and downs, but ultimately, you truly enjoy your work and responsibilities. 

You may not stay at your job forever, but it’s going well at the present time, and you’re looking forward to seeing what comes next.

When it comes to your career, it’s tempting to compare yourself to others. But this is your journey, and if these signs are present, then more than likely, your career is going exactly as it should be.

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This article reflects the views of the author and not necessarily those of Fairygodboss.

What's your no. 1 sign that your career is going as it should be? Share your answer in the comments to help other Fairygodboss members!