Sometimes working in a fast-paced, competitive field can be life-consuming.  We sacrifice our livelihood to outperform, outwit and outlast, but at what cost?

While it’s easy to get swept away by the current of deadlines and saying ‘yes’ to every opportunity, it is important to step back and take note of where you are and where you want to go.

Competition among employees/colleagues is inevitable if you are a passionate, driven, and successful individual.   Here are some tips to help you succeed and be fulfilled in a competitive workplace.

Keep your head on straight

• How do you balance what everyone else wants with what you want?  It’s easy to get swept away by the tide of over-achievers and the energy of more is better, quicker is expected, so make appointments to take care of yourself.  Block off an hour to work out or go for a run at lunch and commit to it just as you would any other business critical meeting.  Point blank: if you are not taking care of you, you’re not going to be at your best.

“This place will chew you up and spit you out.”  Honest words from an Executive Director urging me to take time away for self-focus and vacation. 

Seek out a mentor

• Do you find yourself questioning your career path?  Make a list of questions and seek out a mentor.  Even if your company does not have a formal mentoring plan, senior level colleagues are bound to be open to a mentoring request.  In addition to the satisfaction of molding the mind of an employee eager to be successful,  this also ticks a box for them to “develop employees”.  It’s extremely refreshing to have a fulfilling conversation where you realize  everyone is facing challenges, learning and has inspiring/interesting qualities.

Be your biggest supporter

• Have you ever completed a project and expected some sort of recognition or expression of gratitude from others, only to not even receive a pat on the back?  These experiences can be completely demotivating, so it’s important to engage in projects you are passionate about and want to succeed in regardless of whether it comes with recognition from others.

• If you succeed and/or complete a difficult project, take a moment to truly recognize and reward yourself.  Honestly, you are the only one you can count on, and only you know what you truly want.

Be honest with yourself

• Take the time to reassess your progress, goals and current state of happiness.  Are you where you want to be?  Do you feel yourself getting closer to your goals?  Do you really and truly feel as though you are living a life you are proud of?  There is an unavoidable finiteness to life.  The end goal is to have no regrets and to truly feel as though you lived a life you are proud of.

No one wants to get old, look back and realize they never truly lived or followed their heart. Don’t waste your days on fleeting tasks. ~The Perceived Professional

Do your best to not lose sight of the purpose of life (love and happiness) and always remember to make and take the time to take care of yourself.  All the best in making your career everything you hope for.

Have a tip for succeeding in a competitive workplace?  Comment below and tell us about it!