If losing a job is stressful, looking for a new job can be twice as difficult. Searching for a job is very uncomfortable and for some the experience can be unfamiliar. There are a few people who enjoy the process of selling themselves to prospective employers but many more fear the thought of rejection.
There are several ways to relieve stress and negative feelings from searching for a job. These are some of the tried-and-true methods of keeping you stress-free as you search for a new job.
1. Do not get Isolated
It is easy to fall into the trap of isolating yourself when you’ve lost your job and is currently busy looking for a new one. However, it is better to go out and socialize. It is one way to build a network that can eventually lead you to another job. Think of building your skills by taking a short class or two in your area of specialization. You can inquire about what subjects would most likely help you update your skills set for your target job. You can join professional groups and associations that are pertinent to your work. Look at some volunteer work that can lead you to some opportunities and connections. Join a job search group, where you can be around people who are in the same situation as you. You can provide each other emotional support, exchange leads and even share job searching tips.
2. Work out a Financial Plan
With the loss of your job and steady income, your lifestyle is bound to change. You’ll be very worried about your finances. It will help to make a list of your expenses. Identify what expenses are necessary and the things that you can do without at the moment, but do not forget to set aside some funds for non-essential expenses like transportation, clothing and recreation. Ensure that your savings will last until you land another job. It will also help if you involve the family in this exercise, so they will have a better understanding of the situation.
3. Keep Track of the Progress of your Job Search
Looking for a job is exhausting. While you do not have to make the rounds of submitting your application and resumes personally, you’ll be sending several emails to prospective employers, in the hope that a few of them will give you a positive response. You’ll be spending not only effort and time, but energy as well. By keeping track of your submissions, the emails you sent each day, the responses you got, the phone calls you’ve done and the face-to-face meetings you’ve had, you’ll feel that there is progress in what you are doing.
4. Relieve Stress with Exercise
When you’re too engrossed in work, it is easy to forget exercising regularly. Now that you have more time on your hands, it’s time to exercise, which is not only a great antidote to stress but will also boost your confidence. You can now sign up for that fitness class you’ve always wanted to attend, a local running group or health club. Exercise will relax your tense muscles and relieve your tension as the endorphins that are released by the physical activity will boost your mood. You now have the time to trim your waistline or work on toning your arms and legs to look firmer and younger. Focus more on your body instead of the anxiety finding a job brings you.
Spend at least 30 minutes each day for exercise or break it up into three 10-minute workouts throughout the day. A 10-minute brisk walk can improve your mood for up to two hours. You can relax your body and mind, sharpen your focus and give your mood a boost with rhythmic exercises where you move both your legs and arms, such as dancing, cycling, swimming, weight training, running or walking.
