Looking for a job can be an enormous contributor to stress. Unfortunately, there is a great deal of competition when it comes to finding a new job. According to the United States Department of Labor, 9.5 percent of Americans were unemployed as of July 2010. It takes a lot of effort to develop resumes, contact employers and apply to new positions. It is frustrating when you put so much effort into finding a job and you receive little response. Finding a new job can be a long process, and you must be able to deal with the stress to succeed.
Step 1
Set realistic expectations while you are seeking employment. If you expect to find a dream job with a high salary within a few weeks, you will likely be disappointed. Make achievable goals that are under your control, such as submitting a certain number of applications or taking advantage of networking opportunities each week. Also, don't beat yourself up if you do not accomplish as much around the house while you are unemployed as you thought you would. Your primary responsibility is to look for a job.
Step 2
Stay in a routine. If you are recently unemployed, it may be tempting to sleep in and lounge around all day in your pajamas. You should get up at a reasonable time each morning, shower and get dressed just as if you would if you were working. You will feel better about yourself and you will be prepared to go out and talk to potential employers.
Step 3
Share your feelings with others. It is natural to feel stressed and anxious about the future while looking for a job. Acknowledge your feelings and do the best you can with the things you can control and try not to worry too much about what you cannot. Remember that you are not alone and that many others have lost jobs or struggled to find new employment. Friends and family members will likely provide encouragement and support when you tell them how you feel.
Step 4
Avoid negative people who bring you down. Individuals who always see the negative side of a situation will probably add to your stress. Try to surround yourself with optimistic, positive people who help lift your spirits.
Step 5
Take advantage of job search resources and networking opportunities. Today there is a plethora of ways to find job openings. Make it part of your daily job seeking duties to check local job listings and online job search postings. Be sure to attend job fairs and network with professionals in your line of work who may alert you to new job possibilities.
Step 6
Take care of your health. While looking for a job, you must take the time to take care of yourself. Focus of getting a good night's rest, eating healthy foods and exercising daily.
Step 7
Take some time to reflect on your career plans for the future. While you are between jobs, this is a great time to consider a new career path. If you decide to pursue a different career, find out about education and training opportunities you can pursue while you are unemployed.
Tips and Warnings
- If your stress becomes severe and out of control, you may need professional help. Call your doctor or a mental health professional immediately if you feel depressed, start drinking excessively or using drugs, become abusive to others or have thoughts of suicide.
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