Almost everyone who gets serious about photography always asks the question "What do I need to improve or how do I take it to the next level". So, I will offer a few suggestions.

Take more photos, in fact shoot everyday
Look at the work of others....often
Study to work of the famous master photographers
Don't be afraid to ask for serious critiques of your work
Push yourself, shoot subjects that you are not comfortable with
Start and finish a personal project
View the numerous and free webinars that are offered by photo manufacturers
When you can AFFORD it, invest in Lynda.com or Kelbytraining.com
AdobeTV.com is free
Did I mention that you should shoot something that you normally don't shoot. If you shoot people, then shoot some landscapes. If you shoot birds, then shoot people.
Find more interesting subjects
Buying more equipment will not help....if you buy equipment invest in good lenses first

New York City skyline taken from Weehawken NJ