We all do it. We get in that blah state where we lose our “oomph,” our motivation, our excitement, or inner fire. It happens. It’s just part of life.
When that happens during your job search, it can weigh on you, cause more stress, and possibly put you in an even more of a negative mindset – none of which will factor in well when you’re trying to market your successes and skill set!
Recently, I read this article, “Job Searching When You Aren’t in the Mood,” which had some good starting point ideas.
But I’d like to take those ideas and really look one step further.
1) Have you just fallen into a job search rut? Doing the same thing day after day of course can get boring! Try mixing it up a bit. Maybe try a new job search tactic, attend a new networking event, or investigate a new target company.
2) Are you taking care of yourself physically? Dealing with a job search is stressful, and stress just loves to suck up your internal resources. This is the time to make sure you are eating properly, getting at least a basic amount of exercise, and taking that multivitamin! (Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, and this is not medical advice, just common sense from a good friend!)
3) Have you changed your sleeping habits? Just because you can stay up to all hours watching Downtown Abby marathons, doesn’t mean you should. Yes, I’m the absolute last person that should talk about this, but set some basic boundaries, at least!
4) When was the last time you took a shower and put on real clothes? I say this jokingly, but you know there’s a great deal of truth in it. It’s fun to hang out in sweats after being forced into wearing suits and heels in the corporate world, but I don’t recommend it being a constant occurrence! You’ve heard the jokes about new moms with “mommy brain,” right? The same mush brain applies to anyone who’s home for long period of time. New rule of thumb: If you have to check your calendar to figure out when you got dressed in “real clothes” or took a shower, it’s time to get your head back in the ballgame!
5) Speaking of mush, does your brain feel like it’s turning into oatmeal? Challenge yourself! Is there anything job-related that you’ve wanted to learn but didn’t have time? Take that online course or look into adding another certification. Practice that second language skill that might have gotten rusty.
6) For goodness sake, get out of the house! I love networking events. Being around other professionals gives me a energy boost like no other. Plus, networking increases your opportunities to uncover new positions, meet those who would be happy to give you a referral, and keeps you knowledgeable about your field. And don’t discount what the fresh air can do to your endorphin levels!
And lastly, don’t forget the fun quotient. All work and no play makes Jack a very dull boy. Be sure to get some fun in – whether that means dancing, getting some sun at the beach, or taking a bike ride. Try a new restaurant. Live a full and joyful life.
But through it all, DON’T GIVE UP. Remember this is just a season. And you WILL come out on the other side. I promise!
Julie Mendez