Getting ahead in six months requires strategic planning, disciplined execution, and self-improvement. Here are some actionable ways to outpace others in a short time.
1. Skill Acquisition
Learn a High-Demand Skill: Identify skills relevant to your industry or goals (e.g., coding, public speaking, design, digital marketing).
Certifications: Enroll in online courses or get certified on Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning platforms.
Become an entrepreneur and avoid being too niche to expand your business.
There are specific areas that are still under-represented yet valuable.
2. Act On Your Brand
Creating a strong online presence and optimising one’s LinkedIn profile will boost visibility and drive traffic.
In this era of technology, to get ahead, one needs to use tech tools to build a business or personal brand.
My business mentor once told me, “Wale, if you want to build a successful online presence, you need to start creating a blog or a personal website to showcase your expertise.”
Social Proof: Consistently share your work and achievements on social media to establish authority.
Networking: Attend industry events, engage with professionals online, and build meaningful connections.
3. Master Time Management
Prioritise Ruthlessly: Focus on tasks with the highest return on investment (Pareto Principle: 80/20 rule).
Leverage Tools: I use Notion, Trello, and Todoist to organise tasks efficiently—they are free.
Eliminate Distractions: Limit social media and other distractions to create a focused work environment.
4. Health and Energy Optimization
Improve Physical Health by exercising regularly, eating nutritious meals, and getting sufficient sleep.
I go to the gym 3-4 times a week and work on different muscles. I noticed weightlifting exercises like bench press, weighted dip, deadlifts, and squats boosted my testosterone levels and also make me feel good about myself compared to a few years ago when I didn’t go to the gym.
Boost Mental Clarity: Stay focused by practising mindfulness, meditation, or journaling.
Daily Routine: Create a structured daily schedule that maximises productivity.
5. Expand Your Knowledge Base
Read Daily: Read books, articles, or industry-specific reports to stay informed and gain insights.
Podcasts & Audiobooks: Use commutes or downtime to consume knowledge on topics you want to master.
Stay Ahead of Trends: Follow thought leaders and monitor industry developments.
6. Become A Problem Solver
Proactively Identify Opportunities: Look for inefficiencies or unmet needs in your field and propose solutions.
Think like an Owner: Adopt a mindset focusing on results and long-term impact rather than just tasks.
7. Seek Feedback and Improve
Self-Assessment: Reflect weekly on your progress and identify areas for improvement.
Mentors & Peers: Ask for honest feedback from mentors or colleagues and act on it.
8. Take Bold Actions
Pitch Ideas: Don’t wait for permission to initiate projects or suggest improvements.
Step Outside Comfort Zones: Take on challenges that push your limits and build resilience.
Leverage Risks: Make calculated moves that others may hesitate to take, such as launching a side hustle or changing jobs.
9. Invest in Relationships
Help Others: I’m not boasting here, but I love helping in my community; each time I do it, I feel a sense of purpose. Offer value to others without expecting anything in return. Reciprocity will follow.
Surround Yourself with Achievers: When you surround yourself with people more significant than you, you automatically act like them. Jim Rohn once said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Align with ambitious, growth-oriented individuals who inspire you.
10. Document and Reflect
Track Progress: Keep a journal or use tracking apps to measure your achievements and refine your strategies.
Review Goals: Adjust your objectives monthly to ensure alignment with long-term goals.
Consistent execution of these strategies can position you significantly ahead in six months.
