Sit back and think about your past, including the past year. Make a road map for your career in 2008, and check if it is online to your long-term plan. Imagine yourself in your organization after a few years and plan out the steps that you are taking to reach there.

Keep some key points in your mind while planning, so that your mind stays focused on the road ahead. You can jot down your thoughts, so that you can refer them later.

Think Outside the Corporate Box

If you are unhappy with your current job, then take a look around and check out the job market. There's no harm in looking - but do thorough research before actually changing your job, because this move could backfire.

Think about your future stability in the new job before leaving your old one. If possible, try to sort out your current problem by talking to your boss. If no satisfactory solution can be found, then moving on may be a better option.

Match Your Skills to Take On the Future

To keep up with ever-changing job requirements, you definitely have to sharpen your skills. This not only requires planning, but also action on your part. You might have to attend extra part-time classes or workshops to achieve your goal. Keep in mind where you want your career to go in the future, and take concrete action to achieve it.

Many people are just content to do the bare minimum when it comes to their careers; but to really excel, you need to have extra skills. You also need to be flexible in your way of thinking to adapt to any changes which might come your way.

Remember - you are never too old to learn something new.

Keep the Passion Alive

You may have been promoted many times in your career. Your present position might also be somewhat different than what you may have imagined, but if there is no stress related to your job, then think of the future and keep on working hard.

If you have planned your end destination in advance, then you can be slightly flexible about the path that will take you there. Keeping the passion alive in doing your job will result in fewer mistakes, your being committed and the job getting done more efficiently.

Get a Life

Your life should not revolve around your job. Your family life is also very important, and so is your health. Spend more time with your family and spouse. Take off on short breaks to recharge your batteries and refresh your mind.

This will help in clearing your mind and help you in making positive decisions. A calm and clear mind is very important to stay focused on your long-term plans.

Think like Your Boss

Until you reach the top, there will always be someone on top of you. Think like your boss and try to understand his or her point of view. Try to get on the same wavelength to complete your tasks without asking too many questions.

If your boss is satisfied with your work, then awards and promotions will soon take your career to great heights.

Ultimately, your career progression is up to you - so chart a course for your career to follow, and take the above steps to get there quickly and smoothly.