In today’s economy and uncertain climate, navigating a job search can be quite stressful. Many of the old rules for obtaining a job have gone out the window.
Unfortunately, stress doesn’t help you put your best foot forward. Taking active steps to manage your stress is going to be your best move as you enter this new chapter. Here are five ways to handle any stress that’s coming your way.
Create a Plan
Job searching is rarely a fun experience. There may be enjoyable parts, but those are often overshadowed by the stress. Whether you’re starting brand new or you’re looking for a career change while still working, job searching can quickly become overwhelming.
Having a plan of action can help give you a greater sense of control. Dedicate specific times for completing applications or tweaking your resume. Browse through networking events or social opportunities and block out the appropriate time.
Create an organization system for yourself, including storing resumes, cover letters, and references. Keep folders for relevant materials like company research or interview resources.
Set Realistic Goals
As you search for a job, you may find yourself aiming to do ten job applications a day. However, when it comes down to it, that may be too daunting a number. Approach your job search with realistic goals.
Your focus should be on quality over quantity. Spend time creating detailed cover letters and making sure your resume matches the job description. Setting smaller, more achievable goals will keep your stress levels down and allow you to have that energy where it needs to be.
Maybe you work towards two or three job applications a day and spend time researching a couple more.
Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care needs to be a priority for managing stress, no matter what the source is. Job search stress is no exception.
Sleep: Be sure you’re getting good quality sleep and enough sleep each night. On average you should be getting seven to nine hours. When the brain becomes sleep deprived, it can make you more susceptible to stress, make stress feel more intense than it is, and lead to poor decision-making.
Nutrition: Make sure you’re fueling your body with healthy food to give you the energy and focus for your job search. A well-balanced diet can help you manage your stress more efficiently.
Exercise: Getting regular activity will help provide a distraction from your job search when stress is ramping up. It also serves to regulate your happy hormones for combating stress.
Focus on What You Can Control
Stress makes the brain trail off the course of productivity. Before you know it, your focus has shifted to things that are beyond the reach of your control.
During your job search period, concentrate on the necessities. This includes your job search, preparation of materials, and preparation for interviews. Try your best not to worry about outcomes or other candidates. Worrying about things beyond your control only serves to take focus away from the things you have influence over.
Stay Positive
Depending on several different factors, like your job market and the economy itself, you may have a difficult road ahead of you. As hard as it may seem, some days, try to maintain a positive attitude.
Focus on your strengths and the skillset you bring to whichever job you’re applying for. Assess how you can make an impact on the role and the company.
Use your experiences as learning opportunities and a means for personal growth. If you don’t get the first job you apply to, have faith that it wasn’t meant to be. You are destined for something different and know that you will find it.
Most importantly, don’t take rejections personally.
Bonus: Seek Professional Help
Navigating job searches and career transitions can certainly take its toll. If the stress interferes with your quality of life, you may want to consider seeking professional guidance during this process.
Unattended stress can quickly become depression or anxiety. I’m here to help you develop the tools to get through this. Schedule an appointment with me today. Click on the link to learn more about anxiety counseling.