Staying Positive in the Job Hunt Emotional Rollercoaster
Lately, I’ve been getting quite a few questions about keeping morale up during a job search. It's a bit like waiting for a pot of water to boil — except the pot occasionally sends you cryptic rejections that feel a bit too personal. 🙃 But fear not! I've got some tactics to keep your spirits high and your job hunt buoyant.
Balance is key
The job market is essentially a roller coaster of emotions. One minute you're cresting with excitement over a potential opportunity, and the next, plunging into the depths of defeat at a rejection email. Recognizing this emotional ebb and flow is the first step in maintaining balance. Allow yourself to feel disappointment but set a timer, literally. Give yourself 10 minutes of venting/ranting. Once the alarm goes off, it’s time to pivot back to positivity.
Remember “no” isn’t personal
Rejections sting, of course, but remember that they aren’t personal. Sometimes a “no” simply means “not right now” or “not for this position.” This is where resilience comes in handy. Each rejection nudges you closer to that eventual fit. I like to view each “no” as a clearing of the path, getting rid of jobs that weren’t meant to be, so I can focus on the ones that truly are.
Mix it up
Variety is the spice of job hunting. Spending hours upon hours pounding out job applications is not only mind-numbing but can wear down even the most enthusiastic job seeker. Break up your application sessions with activities you enjoy. This could mean taking a walk, reading a chapter of a book, or even a quick nap. Your brain deserves a rest, too!
Network with zeal
Networking isn’t just about making connections to find a job; it’s about maintaining them, too. Each conversation you have can boost your morale. Ever had someone else see promise in you when you’re feeling low? It’s an immediate pick-me-up. Plus, people love to help — let them!
Celebrate small successes
Every step you take deserves a moment of recognition. Did you complete three applications today? Go you! Finally spoke to that contact you've been anxious about reaching out to? Score! By keeping track of these small wins, you’ll see all the progress you’re making, even if it feels slow at times.
Embrace technology
There are countless resources to streamline your job application process. Consider using application tracking systems (ATS) to stay organized and explore AI tools that can help tailor each application to the specific job description. These technologies not only save you time but can also increase your chances of success.
Positive self-talk matters
This might sound a little cliché, but telling yourself that you’re capable and resilient does wonders. Words of affirmation are powerful, and they can provide you with that extra push when you’d rather binge-watch TV than job hunt.
And remember, when you're crafting those resumes and cover letters, you don't have to go at it alone. At CareerCrate.io, there are free tools like our resume generator and cover letter generator waiting to make the process easier for you. Here's to keeping our spirits high on the next lap around the job search track!