As the year winds down, many professionals take time to reflect on personal milestones, financial goals, and plans for the year ahead. Yet one area that often gets overlooked is career reflection. Before jumping into new resolutions or job searches in January, it is worth pausing to assess where you are now and where you truly want to go.
At LRO Staffing, we work closely with candidates at every stage of their careers, from early professionals to seasoned leaders. One thing we consistently see is that the most successful career moves are not rushed. They are intentional, informed, and grounded in honest self reflection.
As 2026 approaches, here are 5 essential questions to ask yourself before making your next career move.
1. Am I still learning and growing in my current role?
Career growth does not always mean a new title or a bigger paycheck. Often, it shows up in more subtle ways, such as learning new skills, taking on meaningful projects, or gaining exposure to different parts of the business.
Ask yourself whether your current role still challenges you. Are you developing skills that will remain relevant in the years ahead? Are you being trusted with responsibilities that stretch your abilities and build confidence?
If the answer is yes, you may be in a strong position to continue growing where you are. If the answer is no, it does not necessarily mean you need to leave immediately, but it may be a signal to initiate conversations with your manager about development opportunities. This could include training, mentorship, cross functional projects, or a clearer path for advancement.
Stagnation is one of the most common reasons professionals begin to feel disengaged. Recognizing it early gives you more options and more control over your next steps.
2. Does my role align with my values and long term goals?
As careers evolve, so do priorities. What mattered to you five years ago may not hold the same weight today. That is why year end reflection is a powerful opportunity to reassess alignment between your work and your values.
Consider what motivates you at this stage of your life. Is it flexibility, stability, purpose, compensation, leadership opportunity, or work life balance? Does your current role support those priorities, or are you constantly compromising on what matters most?
It is also helpful to think long term. Where do you want to be in three to five years? Does your current position move you closer to that vision, or does it feel like a detour?
Misalignment does not always mean your job is wrong, but it can explain feelings of burnout or restlessness. Gaining clarity on your values makes it easier to evaluate opportunities when they arise and to say yes or no with confidence.
3. Am I being recognized and fairly compensated for my contributions?
Compensation is not the only factor in job satisfaction, but it is an important one. Feeling undervalued financially or professionally can quietly erode motivation over time.
As part of your reflection, take stock of how your contributions are recognized. This includes salary, bonuses, benefits, flexibility, and opportunities for advancement. It also includes feedback, trust, and visibility within the organization.
Ask yourself whether your compensation reflects your skills, experience, and the market. Many professionals delay having compensation conversations because they feel uncomfortable or unsure. However, understanding your market value is a critical part of career management.
If you are unsure where you stand, speaking with a recruitment partner like LRO Staffing can provide insight into current market trends and expectations. Even if you are not actively job searching, having this knowledge empowers you to advocate for yourself more effectively.
4. How is my work impacting my overall well being?
A successful career should support your life, not consume it. As the year ends, it is important to look beyond job titles and responsibilities and consider how your work affects your physical, mental, and emotional well being.
Are you consistently exhausted or stressed? Do you have time and energy for interests, relationships, and rest outside of work? Do you feel supported when challenges arise, or do you feel pressure to push through at all costs?
Workplace culture plays a significant role here. A role that looks ideal on paper can feel unsustainable if the environment does not support healthy boundaries or realistic expectations.
Reflecting on well being is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of maturity and self awareness. Identifying what drains you versus what energizes you can guide future career decisions that are more sustainable and fulfilling.
5. If nothing changed, would I be satisfied this time next year?
This question is often the most telling. Imagine that you are in the same role, with the same responsibilities, environment, and growth trajectory one year from now. How does that feel?
If the idea feels comfortable or exciting, you may be exactly where you need to be. If it feels discouraging or disappointing, it may be time to explore change.
This does not mean making impulsive decisions. Instead, it invites you to think proactively. What would need to change for you to feel fulfilled? Is that change possible within your current organization, or would it require a new opportunity?
By asking this question now, you give yourself time to plan thoughtfully rather than reacting out of frustration later.
Turning Reflection Into Action
Reflection is only valuable if it leads to action. Once you have considered these questions, take note of any patterns or themes that emerge. You may realize you need clearer goals, stronger boundaries, new challenges, or a fresh environment.
Small steps can make a big difference. Updating your resume, having a career development conversation, networking within your industry, or speaking with a recruiter can all be proactive moves that do not require immediate change.
At LRO Staffing, we believe that career planning is an ongoing process, not a once a year event. Year end reflection simply provides a natural pause to reassess and realign.
As you look ahead to 2026, give yourself permission to be intentional about your career. Ask the hard questions, listen to the answers, and remember that you deserve a role that recognizes your value, supports your growth, and aligns with the life you want to build.
If you are ready to explore what is next, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today!
