In her insightful book, The Long Game: How To Be A Long-Term Thinker In A Short-Term World, Dorie Clark emphasizes how focusing too much on immediate tasks can impede long-term career success. Have you ever reflected on your weekly work activities?
Many essential tasks, such as responding to emails, attending meetings, and creating proposals, are necessary for job success. But do you also find yourself juggling extra duties that aren’t part of your core responsibilities? Tasks like organizing events or onboarding new staff can quickly consume your time.
Welcome to the realm of “non-promotable tasks.” Research indicates that women often take on these roles more than men, frequently agreeing to them when asked, leading to an imbalance in task allocation.
Accepting these assignments can limit your ability to engage in “promotable work” that requires creativity and strategic thought. Activities that significantly advance your company’s objectives, such as leading impactful projects or developing cost-saving strategies, should take precedence.
So, how can you shift your focus back to pursuing tasks that align with your career aspirations instead of getting sidetracked by less relevant commitments?
Master the Art of Saying No
According to Dorie Clark, embracing a long-term mindset begins with the ability to decline certain requests. She offers practical advice on discerning what to refuse and how to communicate it effectively.
One effective strategy is to challenge the assumptions behind requests. If someone invites you to a call, instead of immediately agreeing, ask for clarification on the topic. This way, you can make an informed choice. Clark suggests replying with, ‘I’d love to assist, but I’m busy. Could you send the details via email, and I’ll respond?’
“Just like that, you’ve saved yourself unnecessary time,” she notes. “Simple strategies like this allow you to remain helpful while setting your own boundaries.”
Prioritize the Interesting
Engagement in your work often translates to career advancement. Clark recommends that to foster this engagement, you should “optimize for interesting” pursuits. Focus on tasks that resonate with you, those that you find enjoyable and fulfilling.
By adhering to this principle, you cultivate a sense of mastery over time. The more skilled you become, the more enjoyable those tasks become, ultimately leading to a rewarding and meaningful career journey.
