Tet Reflection: How to Reassess Your Career Direction in 2026

This article is written in English for readers in Vietnam. Vietnamese and Japanese translations are available on our website. 

Why Tet Is the Right Time to Reflect on Your Career in 2026

Tết is traditionally a time of renewal. Beyond family gatherings and rest, it also offers space for reflection. For many professionals in Vietnam, the period after Tết naturally prompts questions about career direction, growth, and long-term goals.

In 2026, these reflections feel more important than ever.

Rapid changes in technology, evolving job requirements, and shifting employer expectations mean that career paths are no longer linear. Taking time to reassess your direction after Tết can help you make more intentional and informed decisions.

Understanding Where You Are in Your Career Today

Before planning your next move, it is important to take stock of your current situation.

Start by reflecting on:

• Your current role and responsibilities

• What aspects of your work energise you

• Where you feel challenged or disengaged

• Whether your role aligns with your long-term goals

Honest self-assessment helps clarify whether you need a role change, a skills upgrade, or simply a new perspective.

Identifying What Has Changed Since Last Year

Career satisfaction often shifts gradually rather than suddenly.

Ask yourself:

• Have my priorities changed over the past year?

• Do I still feel motivated by my current career path?

• Has my industry or role evolved in ways I enjoy or struggle with?

• Am I learning and growing at a pace that suits me?

Recognising change is a key step toward making purposeful decisions in 2026.

Evaluating Your Skills and Readiness

Reassessing your career direction also means reviewing your skills objectively.

Consider:

• Which skills I use most frequently in my role

• Which skills I have developed recently

• Which skills are becoming more important in my industry

• Where I may need further upskilling

In Vietnam’s competitive job market, professionals who regularly audit their skills are better positioned to adapt and grow.

Clarifying What You Want Next

Once you understand where you stand, focus on defining what comes next.

This does not require a complete career overhaul. Instead, think about:

• Roles or responsibilities you want to move toward

• Industries or environments that suit your strengths

• Work styles and cultures where you perform best

• Short-term goals for the next 12 to 18 months

Clarity helps you evaluate opportunities more effectively and avoid reactive job changes.

Turning Reflection Into Action

Reflection is valuable only when it leads to action.

After Tết, practical next steps may include:

• Updating your CV to reflect recent achievements

• Exploring learning or certification options

• Speaking with mentors or recruiters for perspective

• Researching roles aligned with your direction

Even small actions can build momentum and confidence.

How Recruiters Support Career Reassessment

Recruiters are often a useful sounding board during periods of reflection.

They can help you:

• Understand how your profile is viewed in the market

• Identify roles aligned with your experience and goals

• Assess whether your expectations are realistic

• Plan timing and strategy for a potential move

Approaching recruiters with clarity improves the quality of guidance you receive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Tết a good time to think about changing careers?

Yes. The post-Tết period is ideal for reflection and planning before making decisions.

2. Do I need to change jobs if I feel uncertain?

Not necessarily. Reflection may highlight development opportunities within your current role.

3. How often should I reassess my career direction?

At least once a year, or when your goals or circumstances change.

4. Should I speak to a recruiter before deciding to move?

Yes. Recruiters can provide market insight and objective feedback.

5. What if I am unsure about my next step?

Uncertainty is normal. Focus on clarifying priorities and taking small steps forward.

✅ Final Author Credit

• By Valerie Ong (Regional Marketing Manager)

• Published by Reeracoen Vietnam — a leading recruitment agency in APAC.

🔗 Related Articles

• Switching Jobs After Tet: What Recruiters Want to See

• How to Position Yourself for Better Roles in 2026

📚 References

• Reeracoen Vietnam Salary Guide 2025

• Vietnam labour market data and employment statistics from the General Statistics Office (GSO)

• Hiring and market insights from Reeracoen Vietnam

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