Given the current state of the job market, it can sometimes take a bit longer than usual to land your next opportunity. While searching for a job, you could be rejected multiple times and may not even hear back from an application at all. Here are some tips to maintain your motivation during the process of finding a new job.
Keep moving
Aim to do something every day toward your job search, no matter how ‘small’ the task may seem. The logic here is that by doing something every day you are creating numerous small wins that will keep your spirits up as you continually chip away at bigger goals.
Don’t underestimate the motivational boost that can come from knowing that you did something productive. Set realistic goals by starting small and building up.
Use your networks
You will have no doubt heard the phrase, ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’. However, in the context of maintaining your motivation, it’s all about using your personal support networks; your family, friends and those you look to during tough times.
Talking through your concerns, wins and losses, is a proven buffer to stress and anxiety. A good sounding board can also help put events and feedback into perspective, which is very helpful when you receive a negative outcome.
In addition to reducing stress levels, talking through the problems your facing with others who have previously been in a similar situation can allow you to learn from their experiences.
Maintain your lifestyle
Depending on your situation, finding secure employment is likely to be your main focus. At the same time, it’s important to not forget or dismiss the activities you once did for enjoyment, such as hobbies, sports, volunteer work and more.
While it may be necessary to curtail expensive hobbies, consider replacing them with lower cost alternatives or modifying them in some way, instead of eliminating them entirely. Much like reaching out to a social support network, immersing yourself in a pleasurable task can reduce stress and allow you to mentally recharge during challenging life phases.
By creating space in your mind and stepping away from your job search, you will actually become more productive in the short and long term. It may even afford you the opportunity to explore new career avenues that you may not have otherwise considered.
Seek many opportunities
It’s risky to hang all of your hopes on a single job. If things don’t turn out the way you want, it can become much more difficult to bounce back and persevere with your job search. Rather than investing in one opportunity, consider several avenues and spread your efforts across multiple options.
As experienced career transition coaches, we completely understand the challenges faced to both individuals and organisations. If you’re finding it hard to stay motivated, speak to our team about how we can help find your passions.