Do you hate your job?
Do you hate your job search?
Those strong feelings of hate or dislike are exacerbating the situation you’re in. It’s the old saying: What you focus on grows. Focus on how much you hate your job/hate job search, and you’ll hate your job/job searching even more.
However, expert research has shown that positive emotions impact you by:
• Broadening your ability to see new options and take different actions.
• Undoing lingering negative emotions.
• Fueling psychological resilience, and
• Triggering upward spirals to emotional well-being.
So, even if you think it sounds “lame,” try focusing on something you love, and you’ll start noticing a shift in your mood, emotions, attitudes, and ability to take action toward what you really want. Researchers also know that we can activate dopamine and oxytocin (the cuddle hormone) in our systems by doing things like holding babies, petting animals, remembering wonderful memories, etc. Exercise helps, too, of course.
When you start to notice those negative emotions that start you spiraling downward, remember:
A = Acknowledge your emotion
B = Be curious – “What do you notice when those thoughts and feelings come up?” “Where does it take you?” “Where do you want to go?”
C = Control the controllables – “What are some options for getting there?” “What would you be willing to experiment with?” “How will you stay focused on that feeling/thinking/action?”
What helps me is remembering my “Why.” Why I do what I do. Why I started this path in the first place. And being grateful for those that I come in contact with each day, and those that touch my life and allow me to touch theirs.
Do you feel stuck, stalled, or disatisfied with your professional progress? Do you wonder what it would look like to take your career to the next level? Have you considered that it might be old habits and needed “re-wiring” that could be keeping you from “going higher? Consider contacting me at JulieMendez@jsmcareercoaching.com and let’s see how a Career Coach might be able to help.