Like most people, I have my insecurities.

I'm not one hundred percent pleased with myself all the time, and I think most people can relate to that. There is one thing I do really like about myself, though, and that is my work ethic when it comes to the things I'm passionate about. I know what kind of life I want to lead, the path I want to take career-wise, and the people I want to keep around. It took me a while to figure everything out through my high school and college years, but now that I have, all I want to do is drive full speed ahead. I thought that this could be an excellent opportunity to share some motivation tips and discuss some things you could do to be continuously moving forward in your career and toward your ultimate goal.

First of all, I am constantly seeking new opportunities. And I do mean CONSTANTLY. Every spare chance I have, I open up one of my saved links to job/internship search websites and see if anything catches my eye. You can't wait around for exciting potential jobs to find you. You need to put in the work and look for a possible adventure that will help you move forward. Around this time last year, I began searching for summer internships. That's right, I started months early. I didn't want to miss out on the coolest internship just because I wasn't looking. Thankfully, by doing this and also using connections, I began a remote writing internship and an event planning internship for the summer. They were life changing, and put so much into perspective for me. Besides helping me develop my career plans, I gained invaluable experience that potential employers LOVE to see on a resume. It has pushed me forward and now I am able to shoot for higher up positions that require that past experience in a specific industry. Seek out these opportunities at every chance you get. Apply even if you're unsure. The worst they can do is not reply or say no for now. Yes, getting those answers can be a bummer, but it isn't as if they're life altering tragedies.

Once you're applying and finding these new opportunities, take every interview offered to you. Even if you aren't sure the job is right for you, go to the interview and ask questions about the position. Sometimes a job description is completely different than the one posted online. Take the chance and explore the potential there. If nothing else, you've made a connection and built a relationship with an organization that might have an opening in the future that suits you. It's important to leave a positive impression on those that you interview with for this reason especially.

Now, I realize I keep saying to be constantly seeking opportunities and new career upgrades, but this doesn't mean you can be flaky. When you commit to a position and are currently working for someone, give it one hundred percent of your effort. Even if you don't plan on being in a certain place long term, references for future positions are always a HUGE boost for an application. Also, if the organization you currently work for is in the same industry as your future position, you might collaborate on something later. Do not burn bridges or get a bad reputation in your chosen field. Instead, maintain positive relationships with your coworkers and superiors. You never know when that connection might come in handy later. Not to mention, is there anything better than having friendships with people who are passionate about the same thing you are? I don't think so!

Lastly, always be looking to improve in your designated field. You've heard it said a million times before, I'm sure. There is always room to improve, and no one is perfect at what they do. Always be attempting to raise your skill level and move up in the chain. For instance, if you're a writer or are in the creative field, workshops are an excellent way to stay proficient and improve yourself. This dedication will certainly make a difference on your next performance review or job interview.

These tips might seem like a huge challenge, but once you get started, they'll soon become habitual. If you know what career path you want to take in life, there is no time to sit around waiting for opportunity to knock at your door. Get up and go bust down the door yourself. Take your life and job performance into your own hands. Once you do this, you can conquer your industry with hard work and dedication.