Job seekers are spending long, grueling hours, hitting the job front from multiple angles, but the stress is becoming unbearable. So, I decided to build a list of job search de-stressing tips which hopefully provide you with some relief.
1. Take stock in what you have.
When did our personal worth become indicative upon a j-o-b? No doubt, the loss of income will force us to make some difficult decisions, but never will our income, possessions, or number of/type of credit cards we hold even come close to representing our self-worth.
My husband reminded me yesterday of what beautiful grandsons we have; and no matter the kind of day I’m having, or the day they’ve had, we grace each other with smiles, hugs, and kisses. They don’t care about the job I have (or that I even have one); they don’t care about the fanciness of clothes I wear; they don’t care about successes and failures I’ve had in my professional life. They care about my well-being, my happiness, and about the fullness of my “you’re loved” Grammy meter.
It’s too dang easy to lose sight of what really does matter, sadly concerning ourselves more about what’s secondary, maybe even irrelevant (i.e. Why didn’t I get a response to my resume; why didn’t I get that call from the recruiter like he promised; and, why am I not getting interviews). You can stress about the “whys,” but at the end of the day, they are meaningless.
2. Embrace that you’re a pea in a pod.
So many around you are facing the same job search challenges, and although it might feel like you’re alone, maybe on your own deserted island, you are not alone.
I bet you have plenty to offer others who are unemployed – even if it’s just an open ear. What’s the best way for us to de-stress and shift focus from our own problems? Helping others always works for me.
Where can you find a “pea buddy? How about…
- Online forums
- Local job clubs
- Business groups
- Networking events
“Let’s conquer this together.” (Unknown)
3. Get out every day, even if it’s just a walk through your back yard.
Visit your local library, and yes, the local unemployment office. Being unemployed doesn’t mean you need to be in seclusion, facing the uphill battle all on your own.
Don’t overlook transition assistant programs for those who’ve left the military, the resources provided from local employment centers, and the benefits that result from just talking with people.
Here’s another “insider tip” that few use: Visit your Chambers of Commerce. You’d be amazed how wonderful the people are who man these offices…and wow, what a terrific resource they can be. These people are so helpful, and I guarantee you won’t leave your Chamber’s office unsatisfied. For example, they can provide details on upcoming business networking events (great for meeting professionals in your area), provide you with a membership directory (packed full of local companies, addresses, and sometimes, contact names), and on occasion can provide job leads.
Need additional ideas for getting out every day?
- Meet your significant other for lunch; brainstorm on job search strategies and ideas worth pursuing. In fact, ask for more than just advice…ask for hands-on help. An extra pair of eyes and hands can go a long way.
- Go yard sale-ing – crazy! I know. It’s fun though… and fun is a great de-stresser. Ah, but mention you’re searching for a job as you casually peruse each sale’s offerings. You’ll be amazed how many job leads you’ll uncover using this unorthodox method.
- Join area business groups that have “power lunch sessions” – many of the ABWA groups have daily power lunch meetings for professionals wanting that daily “kick in the pants” of motivation.
4. Grab a drink and curl up with a good book.
Never overlook the calming effect of just sitting still and taking time for yourself. If you feel guilty stepping away from your job search, opt for a self-help book to brush up your time management skills, or whatever skill you wish to improve upon, or go with something like the following:
- What Color is Your Parachute written by Richard Nelson Bolles (Great read!)
- Who Moved My Cheese written by Spencer Johnson (Funny stuff!)
You may be jobless, but you are never, never useless or worthless. And don’t you forget it!
Photo credit: Shutterstock
About Teena Rose
Thank you Teena! I use some of your tips and find they are very helpful.
This gives me a greater sense of well-being.
Thank you for this valuable information. I am applying to “going back to school” anxiety.
Thanks again,
Felisha Tyree
Encouraging article. Thank you, Teena.
I would add ‘Volunteer somewhere’ to the list. The benefits just start with:
- A place to get out and go (keeps you on a schedule).
- People to meet and help (and this Networking could lead to a job!).
- Reasons to apply and grow your skills as you help others (makes you more marketable and confident; put these new abilities on your resume).
- Show that you’re a “doer.”
It costs nothing, except the time you invest. Feel free to add to the list, then do it.
Richard,
You are exactly right. Helping others keeps the focus off of you and redirects in to others. That alone will reinforce self empowerment, motivation and clear goals.
Thank you for the reminder.
Felisha
This was a great post. Thanks for the uplifting ideas. I too am on the hunt for a new job in the public or nonprofit sectors. I have a little one to keep me occupied an it helps with the stress level when she is around. Thanks again.
Will
Great post. After 12 years in the high-tech industry, I find myself searching for work with little success. It's easy to forget that others in the same situation or worse. Keeping socially active and goal-oriented have been the key to keeping my sanity :D
Hi Teena,
Thanks so much for your destressing tips. I am a 46 year old technology professional looking for a job for the first time in my life. In the past jobs always found me. Thanks you so much for the boost!
Gary
Thank you for writing this article. I feel like all of us can use a little self-help pep talk in these tough economic and employment times. I especially take advantage of lunch times with my significant other. Its a great way to retool and to reconnect after some unsatisfying job hunting.
Thanks for these tips. #3 is super, super, super, super important! We can't agree more on how important it is to get out and breathe some unfiltered air every day.
Thank you so much for this wonderfully informative article. As an increasingly frustrated job seeker, I took so much of your “common sense” advice to heart.
In fact, I'm going to contact the local Chamber of Commerce immediately and see about coming in to speak with some people.
The idea of allowing yourself to enjoy life — lunches, walks in the park, visits to the library — really do help you manage stress and give you time to realize that you are more than your employment or unemployment status.
Again, I am very grateful for this article. And I hope many other job hunters will use your tried and true advice.