Workers from our parents generation may view younger workers as lazy or entitled, despite the fact that research shows that today’s young workers face severe barriers to employment. These include multiple financial crises and globalization.

Today’s young people tend to study longer, have more opportunities to change careers and work more often, and they are subject to greater competition for entry-level positions after they finish their studies.

Career advancement used to be a linear process. This involved graduation and securing a job in the field. Then, you would move up through the ranks with promotions and raises. Employees are more likely than ever to take on multiple roles at different companies and explore five different career paths in their lifetime.

How can you make your career a success in this highly competitive job market?

Continue reading to learn about career advancement strategies that won’t make you a workaholic.

Establish a network strategically

It’s no longer what you know, but who you know. Word of mouth and recommendations are more important than formal qualifications.

Participating in social events at work can help you build professional relationships with people who may be able to offer advice or recommendations. Networking is essential for building professional support net, increasing confidence, keeping on the pulse of your industry and building a reputation that attracts potential new opportunities.

You can build network in person or online. However, you should be careful about what you post on social media, even your personal ones. Online communication is not completely private. Potential hiring managers may check your online profile when considering you for a job.

Be a lifelong learner

Many people believe that once they’ve completed their education or worked for a while, they have all the knowledge and skills they need. Fixed thinking can hinder growth and development. In a world of technology and globalization, it is important to be open to new ways to operate and think.

You can increase your resilience and your well-being at work and home by seeing change as an opportunity to grow, rather than a threat.

Prioritize and learn how to say no

Instead of working your tail off and doing mediocre work on several assignments, focus all your energy on the one that has the greatest impact.

If possible, say no to any tasks that you are not able to complete. This will allow you to use your mental resources to perform exceptional work that could lead to recognition, additional opportunities, or promotion.

A personal work plan that is achievable and realistic will help you reduce multitasking. This can adversely impact productivity and cause you to feel overwhelmed and flustered.

Make a hobby of it

Although creativity can be difficult to find at work, it is possible. However, spending your entire day at work will not help you to think creatively. It has been proven that having a hobby can increase productivity, break the monotony cycle, and encourage creativity in solving workplace problems.

A hobby can help you to improve your mental and physical health and provide a counterbalance for long hours at work.

Do not work too hard

In recent years, the pace of work has risen significantly. Employees are expected to do more work in a shorter time. Digital productivity tools are a great way to manage your time, prioritize tasks, track progress and combat procrastination.

Automating or outsourcing administrative tasks can help you to free up bandwidth and allow you to concentrate on the bigger picture or devote more time to a project.

Practice gratitude

When someone describes their feelings about their job, “grateful” is not the first word that pops into their heads. But maybe it should. An attitude of gratitude toward work can make a big difference in your personal well-being, work balance, and overall satisfaction.

You can strengthen your professional relationships by focusing on the positive aspects of your work and help you respond to challenges with ease. This can lead to recognition and career advancement without additional stress.

Find out what works best for you

Each person’s career path is different and will evolve as they gain more experience and learn new skills. There has never been greater flexibility or freedom to choose a career that motivates, inspires, and energizes.

Even people who love their work or are ambitious should remember that work is not a way to define one’s worth or identity.

You can make a career advancement without having to sacrifice your personal life or work too many hours.