On paper, it’s a job hunter’s market. Unemployment is low and many companies are struggling to fill open positions. But that doesn’t necessarily translate into an easier search for individual job seekers. Applying for jobs is mentally draining, but you’ll need to be at your best in order to land one. Here are some tips to fight emotional exhaustion, no matter how long your job hunt takes.
Create Boundaries
Job hunting can be the equivalent of a full-time job, so make sure you establish a strong work-life balance. Create a schedule that takes your peak performance levels into account and stick to it. Resist the urge to scroll job postings outside of those hours, instead focusing on something fun or relaxing.
Set SMART Goals
Sure, landing a job is the ultimate goal, but a series of SMART goals can help keep you motivated and moving forward. SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound. For example, you might set a goal of applying for one job per day and a separate goal of updating all your social media profiles by the end of the week. Don’t forget to celebrate each win!
Remember: Quality, Not Quantity
There’s no sense in shotgunning your resume for a bunch of positions that aren’t the right fit. All it will do is bog you down and make you feel frustrated, which can lead to emotional exhaustion. Take the time to think about what roles you’ve enjoyed in the past and where you want your career to go. Narrow your search further by determining the work shift and company culture you prefer. Then focus solely on positions that truly meet your goals and desires.
Honor Your Feelings
Don’t try to force yourself to feel any particular way during your job search. Emotional exhaustion tends to set in when you repress your true feelings. SMART goals and celebrating small victories can keep you pushing forward, but it’s normal to feel sad, anxious, frustrated, or overwhelmed. Honor your emotions, empathize with yourself, and take a break when you need one.
Practice Self-Care
Some people feel that they don’t “deserve” self-care when things are unsettled…but that’s exactly when you need and deserve it the most! Build time into your schedule to do whatever genuinely makes you feel better. It might be yoga or a hot bath or video games or a pickup basketball game. The activity itself is irrelevant—the point is to regularly take time to lift yourself up. After all, you can’t be any good to anyone else if you aren’t being good to yourself.
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