Feel like you need a refresh? Let’s take that next step

Feeling like you need a refresh? You’re not alone. Sometimes the push for change comes quietly, a sense that you’re ready for more or simply ready for something different. Taking that next step doesn’t have to feel daunting; with a bit of reflection and intention, you can turn that feeling into real progress. A small shift in perspective can open the door to new opportunities, and even the smallest actions can build powerful momentum over time.

This guide will help you reset, refocus, and move forward with clarity, offering practical ways to approach your next chapter with confidence and purpose.

1. Identify what worked (and what didn't)

Before you dive into setting new goals or making big changes, it’s worth giving yourself the space to look back with honesty. This reflection isn’t about judging past choices, it’s about understanding the environments, situations and approaches that helped you thrive, and recognising the ones that pulled you off track. Taking this step helps you see your career journey more clearly and gives you a stronger foundation for whatever comes next.

Consider noting down:

• Tasks or responsibilities you genuinely enjoyed
• Moments where you felt confident, supported or motivated
• Challenges that held you back or repeatedly caused frustration
• Skills you used often, and those you wish you'd used more
• Any feedback that highlighted strengths or areas for improvement

By organising your thoughts in this way, you’re better equipped to make informed, intentional decisions about your next move. It turns reflection into action and ensures your next step is one that truly supports your growth.

2. Map out your key goals

Once you’ve taken the time to reflect, it becomes much easier to define what you want your next chapter to look like. Mapping out your goals isn’t about creating a rigid plan; it’s about giving yourself direction and clarity. Think about the kind of work that excites you, the skills you want to develop, and the type of environment where you can genuinely thrive. By understanding what matters most, you can set goals that feel meaningful rather than overwhelming.

As you shape these goals, try to keep them realistic and flexible. Priorities change, opportunities evolve, and you’ll grow along the way, so let your goals guide you, not restrict you. The clearer your intentions, the more confidently you can take the steps that move you forward. We have a blog all about personal development and setting goals! Why not take a read of that HERE!

3. Refresh your CV

With your goals taking shape, it’s the perfect time to make sure your CV reflects who you are now, not who you were a few years ago. A refreshed CV helps you highlight your strengths, showcase your recent achievements, and align your experience with the opportunities you’re aiming for. Even small updates can make a big difference in how confidently you present yourself to potential employers.

Here are a few simple ways to give your CV a meaningful refresh:

• Update your most recent roles with clear, concise achievements.
• Tailor your CV to the types of roles you’re aiming for.
• Highlight skills that reflect where you want to grow, not just where you’ve been
• Make sure your layout is clean, modern and easy to scan.
• Remove outdated roles, skills or sections that no longer add value.

A clear, up-to-date CV doesn’t just tell your story; it helps open the door to the opportunities you’re ready for. It also gives you the confidence of knowing you’re presenting the very best version of your experience and potential. We have a blog all about how to make your CV stand out! Read it HERE.

4. Grow your network with purpose

Building your network isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about creating meaningful connections that support your growth. Take time to engage with people who inspire you, who work in areas you’re curious about or who share similar values and ambitions. Purposeful networking opens doors to new insights, opportunities and collaborations, while helping you feel more connected within your industry or community.

As you grow your network, focus on authenticity over quantity. When conversations are genuine and mutually valuable, the relationships you build become far more impactful and long-lasting.

If you consider yourself an introvert and really struggle with the idea of networking, then we have made a blog for networking guidelines for introverts! Take a look HERE.

5. Focus on you

In the middle of planning your next steps, it’s easy to overlook the most important element of your career journey: you. Taking time to prioritise your well-being, confidence, and boundaries isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for sustainable growth. Whether it’s setting aside moments to recharge, recognising your strengths or giving yourself permission to slow down, focusing on yourself helps you stay grounded and motivated.

When you invest in your own needs and energy, you’re better equipped to make decisions that truly benefit you. A healthier, more balanced you makes every next step feel more intentional and achievable.

6. Stay open for growth

As you move forward, remember that growth often happens in unexpected ways. Staying open to new ideas, opportunities, and challenges allows you to evolve beyond what you initially imagined. Not every step will look exactly as you planned, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the most valuable experiences come from the paths you didn’t expect to take.

By embracing flexibility and curiosity, you give yourself the freedom to discover new strengths and possibilities. Growth isn’t a destination; it’s an ongoing journey, and being open to it can lead you to opportunities that genuinely align with who you’re becoming.