Reducing Job Search Stress
Stress Busters: Making The Most of Your Job Search
Life brings us plenty of stress everyday. Don't let the loss of a job increase your stress levels. Whether you're out of work, or on a hunt for a better career, there are ways to reduce the amount of unnecessary stress in the process. When you're ready to look for that new job, make the most of your time and energy by coming up with a plan to keep you focused on your goals.
Be Patient
Job searching is a process and it takes time like everything else. It's easy to get frustrated when we don't get results right away, but stay focused. Remind yourself that it may take longer than you think and more importantly, you're worth it. Make realistic goals for yourself every week and reward yourself for achieving them. No matter how much time you're putting into it, you need to take a break. So when you achieve your weekly goal, take some time off to regroup then start again fresh.
You are not your career
There is more to you than your 9-5. If you let your job define you, you will end up feeling lost and empty when you don't have one. You are a valuable person and you don't need a career to validate you. It can be very difficult to separate yourself from your career, but it will prove positive if you can. Think of yourself as an already complete person who will be even happier with a satisfying career.
Of course there is nothing wrong with maintaining a great career that enhances your life. Nevertheless, it can't be the only thing that makes you you. If you get into a rut and you're feeling really down in the dumps, take some time off. Job Searching is a full-time job and like every other job, you will need a vacation now and then. Use your time to assess your situation. Figure out how to work smarter-not harder.
Take yourself seriously
Make smart decisions about ads and occupations that sound like a good match for you. It's never good to put all your eggs in one basket, but make sure you're using your time wisely. Think of your job search as research project. Set up goals, a plan of action, and a deadline in which you should be done with your project.
Have a place to report to everyday. It can get depressing sitting in your house day after day, especially if you're not getting your desired results right away. Find a quiet place like a library where you can use all of your materials and concentrate on your goals.
About the Author
Scott Brown is the author of the Job Search Handbook (http://www.JobSearchHandbook.com). As editor of the HireSites.com weekly newsletter on job searching, Scott has written many articles on the subject. He wrote the Job Search Handbook to provide job seekers with a complete yet easy to use guide to finding a job effectively.