When you were in school did anyone ever say you weren’t living up to your potential? Don’t let that statement follow you into adulthood. With a little effort on your part, you could really get noticed and maybe even promoted! You do want to move forward in life don’t you?

Showing up to work and going through the motions everyday will earn you a paycheck, but it’s not likely to leave you feeling personally fulfilled – or help you move forward in your career. Here are some simple things you can do to step up your work-game.

Think 2 steps ahead – Every boss loves an employee who just knows what to do – and does it. Instead of waiting to be told what to do, take it upon yourself to jump into what your next project should logically be. You don’t have to be a mind-reader to become a proactive worker…you just need to pay attention.

Change things up – Think about ways you can do things differently than you always do. Actually participate if you are usually quiet and just listen during meetings. If you see a way something can be done better – speak up! Jump in and offer to help with a project instead of waiting for someone else to volunteer.

Stop procrastinating – You know those projects that always seem to get shuffled to the bottom of your to-do list…and never actually get done? They’re holding you back. Do them and get them off your list for good. Out with the old and you’ll have room for something that you might find far more interesting.

Look for ways you can help – With those pesky projects checked off your list you have time to lend someone else a helping hand. This can really open up a world of opportunities for you. Chat up your co-workers and see if they have an interesting project you can get involved in or ask your boss what you can do to help him or her out. Before you know it, you’ll be known as the go-to co-worker.