Job hunting can be very exciting, but it can also be a hard process if it gets prolonged. Have you found yourself applying for positions, attending interviews regularly, and still not receiving any job offers? If so, it can be challenging to stay optimistic and productive. While it’s important to stay the course and continue searching for your next role, it’s also crucial to take care of your mental health. Here are three ways to help maintain good mental health while job searching:
- Set a schedule with attainable goals. Setting a sustainable schedule for your day or week can help keep yourself motivated and on track. Establish quantifiable and attainable goals to complement your schedule. For example, aim to devote two hours each weekday to filling out job applications or set a goal of completing 4 applications per day. While making your schedule, take into consideration the time of day you’re most productive. Is it best for you to spend the morning applying for jobs, or are you more productive in the evening? Adjust your schedule to best suit your body and mind’s natural rhythms. Your schedule may also fluctuate depending on your current employment situation. If you’re working full-time and also applying for jobs, this will likely extend your timeline since you don’t have as much free time.
- Block off time to relax and have fun. Factor in downtime for yourself during your job hunt. Time away from the search allows you to kick back, recharge, and reduce stress. See your friends and family, participate in fun activities, and rest. Although you might want to continue browsing job boards and working on applications, it’s important to find time to unwind and recharge your battery. Step away from your computer completely! If you don’t take the time to rest, you will likely experience burnout over time.
- Celebrate small victories along the way. Try your best to look at the bright side during your job hunt. For example, think of each job interview as practice or professional development even if you don’t ultimately get a job offer. As you meet recruiters and other professionals in your industry during your job search, add them to your LinkedIn network. You never know – the recruiter you worked with for one role may end up coming back around with an even better opportunity for you later on. It only takes one job offer to put an end to your job hunt!
Stay vigilant during your job search, but also look after yourself and nurture your mental health. Maintaining a positive attitude and a clear, rested headspace will allow you to continue putting your best foot forward during the application and interview process. Happy job hunting!