Everyone needs a pep talk now and then. And nobody needs the occasional pep talk more than someone who is looking for work!
It has been said about the job search process that unless you endure 99 no's, you will not get to yes. You will most likely send out hundreds of resumes and go to dozens of interviews before you land a job of any kind, much less the job of your dreams. This sometimes takes months, even years.
It can be very discouraging, and makes even the most talented person wonder if he or she has anything to offer in the workplace.
In this section, we offer ideas about how to keep your spirits up.
To start, remember to...
- Be thankful - Take a few moments to think about something that made you feel good today . . . a smile, a hug, sunshine, a rainbow, an inspiring story.
- Look around - It is easy to get into a blue mood when we focus on our own hardships. Look for someone nearby who needs a hand and pitch in.
- Breathe - How we breathe affects our sense of well-being. When stress or sadness become overwhelming, stop and take a few slow, deep breaths. You'll feel better.
- Laugh - Go to the library and get a funny movie, audio recording, or book. Nothing heals as well or as deeply as a good laugh. Share it with a friend.
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Exercise - Physical movement creates positive emotions. If you can
walk, swim, or ride a bike, go do that. If necessary, find other
ways of getting exercise. Here's a link to help:
http://exercise.about.com/cs/
exdisabilities/a/disabilities.htm - Eat right - In times of stress it is tempting to eat too much or too little. Caffeine may help you stay awake, but it also adds to anxiety. Eat healthy to feel your best while facing the challenges ahead.
- Sleep well - There is always tomorrow. Don't let the victories or defeats of the day rob you of necessary rest.
- Share - Nurture your relationships with family and friends. Talk about the hopes and disappointments of your job hunt. Accept their support and be there for them as well.
Finally, look on the Internet. There is no shortage of websites with
inspiring, encouraging, life-affirming messages, music, photos, and
cartoons. Here are a few sites just to get you started (and many of
these include their own list of favorite links):
For wonderful quotations about life, success, joy, and many other topics:
http://www.inspirationpeak.com
Here is a website that draws peace and inspiration from many spiritual traditions:
http://www.dailyom.com/
If all else fails, try eating ice cream for breakfast. Here is a web page devoted to that pursuit!
http://www.itzahckret.com/icecreamforbreakfast.html
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