We thought we’d get a head start on the new year and be among the first to offer you resources and insights that will truly be useful in 2026. We’ve had time to rest, and many of us are still on holiday, but this is also the perfect moment to start preparing, in advance, for our careers in the year ahead.

And since January is always the month of resolutions, we decided to put together a list of 7 resolutions that are truly worth setting for the year ahead, so that your career can follow an upward trajectory.

And because nothing tells a story better than a number, we’ve also included a statistic from recent studies for each resolution, one that confirms its relevance and highlights why it matters. So here are 7 unconventional resolutions worth committing to in 2026:

1. Build skills that cannot be automated

Why it matters in 2026

Automation and AI will eliminate or transform many operational roles. Real value will increasingly come from critical thinking, creativity, communication, and leadership.

The number that supports this resolution

Over 44% of employees’ skills will need to be updated by 2027 (World Economic Forum).

How to achieve it, practically

• Choose one key human skill (e.g. public speaking, negotiation, problem-solving).

• Enroll in a short course and apply it immediately (present a project, ask for feedback).

• Once a month, explicitly ask a colleague or manager for feedback on that skill.

2. Become professionally visible, not just efficient

Why it matters in 2026

“Invisible” performance is no longer enough in a competitive, hybrid job market.

The number that supports this resolution

Employees with internal and external visibility have 65% higher chances of being promoted (LinkedIn Workplace Insights).

How to achieve it, practically

• Once a month, share a professional insight (on LinkedIn or internally).

• After each completed project, send a short impact email (“what I delivered + the result”).

• Participate actively in meetings: prepare one clear idea or question in advance.
   

3. Choose your employer based on values, not just salary

Why it matters in 2026

Burnout and “quiet quitting” will continue wherever company culture fails to support people.

The number that supports this resolution

76% of employees say company values influence their decision to stay or leave (Glassdoor).

How to achieve it, practically

• During interviews, ask clear questions, such as: “What does a difficult decision made in line with company values look like?”

• Analyze turnover rates and employee feedback.

• Define three non-negotiable values before accepting an offer.
   

4. Learn how to negotiate your role and salary properly

Why it matters in 2026

Salary transparency will increase, but gaps will continue to exist for those who don’t negotiate.

The number that supports this resolution

Only 37% of employees actively negotiate their salary, even though most receive an increase (Payscale).

How to achieve it, practically

• Document your impact: numbers, results, savings.

• Practice negotiation beforehand with a friend or mentor.

• Ask for more than your minimum target, negotiation space matters.
   

5. Build a flexible career plan, not a rigid one

Why it matters in 2026

Linear career paths are becoming the exception, not the rule.

The number that supports this resolution

Successful employees will change, on average, 3–5 different roles by 2030 (McKinsey).

How to achieve it, practically

• Create a 12-month plan, not a 5-year one.

• Every six months, reassess what you’ve learned versus what you still want.

Identify adjacent roles, not just the next job title.
 

6. Prioritize mental health as part of performance

Why it matters in 2026

Sustainable performance will be the real differentiator.

The number that supports this resolution

Burnout reduces productivity by up to 23% and increases the intention to leave (Gallup).

How to achieve it, practically

• Set clear work boundaries (hours, notifications).

• Schedule real breaks, not “whenever I have time.”

• Discuss workload and priorities openly with your manager.
   

7. Build professional relationships, not just contacts

Why it matters in 2026

Opportunities increasingly come through recommendations, not traditional applications.

The number that supports this resolution

70% of jobs are filled through networking or referrals (HubSpot).

How to achieve it, practically

• Once a month, reconnect with someone in your industry.

• Offer help before asking for it and be open to accepting it when it’s offered.

• Build authentic relationships, not just CV exchanges.
   

Conclusion

2026 will not be a year of sudden change, but one of conscious choices. The job market will continue to evolve, yet the real difference will be made by those who actively take ownership of their professional direction, not by those who wait for things to happen on their own.

The seven resolutions above are not abstract New Year’s promises, but concrete reference points that can transform the way you build your career.

In the end, it’s not about checking off all these resolutions at once, but about starting with the one that matters most to you right now.

And if you were waiting for a sign to take the career step you set as a resolution for 2026, this article is your sign.

We’re rooting for you.