Surviving Job Search Stress
A Job Search Is An Emotional Roller-Coaster Ride
Searching for a job can evoke a range of emotions. If you are searching for a job, then you may often be more open to negative and depressing emotions like anger and shame, instead of positive emotions. These emotions may rise and ebb, only to resurface again later.
Searching for a job is like going on an emotional roller coaster ride - but what you may not know is that there are ways that you can control the twists and turns of your job search. Career consultants say that 90% of job search is an internal process (i.e. managing your emotions). Managing your emotions means that you are able to manipulate your thoughts and emotions in a way that serve you positively.
Tips To Surviving Your Job Search
While it is good to stay away from depressing emotions, it is not a very bright idea to stay away from your emotions altogether. They will invariably become your strengths. Try to look for value in your emotions because doing so will help put the situation in perspective, and you will then be able to think clearly. For instance, the strong emotion of anger can also give you the energy to act in a positive way, just like the emotion of guilt and embarrassment teaches you to reexamine your behavior and act in accordance with your set values and principles.
Often in times of distress, we tend to talk to ourselves. Psychologists term this behavior 'self talk' and believe that it is healthy provided you are giving your distressed mind positive messages like 'I can do it' or 'I will remain calm so that I can analyze my situation more optimistically'.
Fear is another emotion that most job seekers face. Fear can often make you feel that the situation is out of control. To get out of this mind-trap, you can make and keep promises to yourself. Set goals that will empower your mind and get you into action mode. For more effective control over fear, start writing a journal and register all your fears and the possible steps that you can take to overcome it. Also write about the barriers that are holding you back from applying those steps.
Another very good way of beating job search stress is to participate in a job search support group. Most regions have at least one, but if your area lacks one then you can form a support group on your own. The Internet also has lots of job search support resources.
The most important thing to remember when facing the stress of looking for a job is to remain positive and active. By not letting your mind become idle, you can stop negative thoughts and fears from taking hold in the first place.
© 2009
