s An Emotional Roller-Coaster Ride
Searching for a job can evoke a range of emotions. If you are
searching for a job, then you may often be more open to
negative and depressing emotions like anger and shame, instead
of positive emotions. These emotions may rise and ebb, only to
resurface again later.
Searching for a job is like going on an emotional roller
coaster ride – but what you may not know is that there are ways
that you can control the twists and turns of your job search.
Career consultants say that 90% of job search is an internal
process (i.e. managing your emotions). Managing your emotions
means that you are able to manipulate your thoughts and
emotions in a way that serve you positively.
Tips To Surviving Your Job Search
While it is good to stay away from depressing emotions, it is
not a very bright idea to stay away from your emotions
altogether. They will invariably become your strengths. Try to
look for value in your emotions because doing so will help put
the situation in perspective, and you will then be able to
think clearly. For instance, the strong emotion of anger can
also give you the energy to act in a positive way, just like
the emotion of guilt and embarrassment teaches you to reexamine
your behavior and act in accordance with your set values and
principles.
Often in times of distress, we tend to talk to ourselves.
Psychologists term this behavior =EBself talk’ and believe that
it is healthy provided you are giving your distressed mind
positive messages like =EBI can do it’ or =EBI will remain calm so
that I can analyze my situation more optimistically’.
Fear is another emotion that most job seekers face. Fear can
often make you feel that the situation is out of control. To
get out of this mind-trap, you can make and keep promises to
yourself. Set goals that will empower your mind and get you
into action mode. For more effective control over fear, start
writing a journal and register all your fears and the possible
steps that you can take to overcome it. Also write about the
barriers that are holding you back from applying those steps.
Another very good way of beating job search stress is to
participate in a job search support group. Most regions have at
least one, but if your area lacks one then you can form a
support group on your own. The Internet also has lots of job
search support resources.
The most important thing to remember when facing the stress of
looking for a job is to remain positive and active. By not
letting your mind become idle, you can stop negative thoughts
and fears from taking hold in the first place.
About The Author: Recognized as a leading expert in the
employment search industry, Heather Eagar provides working
professionals with up-to-date, reliable and effective job
search tools and information. Heather created the Ultimate Job
Search Experience for job seekers at
http://www.JobsCareersEtc.com
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