Stay motivated when jobless

Job loss is stressful, particular in these trying times of the pandemic. There will be days when you may feel discouraged and depressed.

The job market is specifically complicated and the competition is brutal. Getting through this period of being unemployed, is hard. So it is important to use whatever means and resources necessary to keep your motivation alive.

Apply these tips to maintain your motivation while you search for a job:

1. Exploit the influence of the internet. Save time and money! Most projects that will help you find gainful employment are actions you can apply more effectively online.

* Research the best companies to work for and apply directly on the company website. Join online networking groups such as Linkedin to narrow your job search.

2. Work on your job search each day. Spend five days of the week actively looking for a job. Pick the ones that will work best for you. In most cases, that would be Monday through Friday. Take the other two days off. In other words treat your job searching like an actual job. Record each daily task such as which company you applied to, did you get a response/interview, how well was the interview, do a follow up with each prospect

3. Use your unemployment funds wisely. Pay bills that are necessary but limit other things, like social outings, to a minimum.

* If you need to borrow money from a friend or family member, do so. Having the money you need to get by will take a lot of stress off of you.

4. Eat nutritious food. Stressful times tend to weaken your immune system, so include plenty of extra fruits and vegetables in your diet to help your body and mind be at its best. Protein is also necessary for keeping your energy levels up when you’re looking for work.

* Trying to gain or lose weight at this time doesn’t usually work well. You’re more likely to be successful with your weight goals if you put off dieting until after you’ve found another position.

5. Exercise regularly. Enjoy whatever type of exercise that you’re used to doing. This can be dancing, running, walking, or any other type of activity that you wish.

* Exercise reduces stress, brings you energy, keeps you alert, increases your feelings of well-being, and strengthens your health. All of these benefits will help keep you motivated while looking for a job.

6. Get plenty of rest. It may be difficult to sleep at times when you’re looking for work, but it’s better to try. For optimum benefits, shoot for 7 or 8 hours of good quality sleep.

* Avoid caffeine or computer screens for several hours before bedtime to make it easier to get your rest.

7. Use your friends for support. Don’t be afraid to enlist the help of your friends. Explain to them that you’re between jobs and actively looking for work. Tell them what you’re looking for and your background and skills.

* Your friends may know of a company that is looking for someone just like you!

8. Make an effort to keep in touch with previous co-workers. Co-workers from your previous job may also have job ideas and leads for you.

9. Watch your transportation costs. Cutting back on your gas mileage will save you money. It will also prevent a lot of wasted time. Only go to companies that you’ve contacted and have an interview with, so you aren’t just pounding the pavement.

10. Schedule some “me time” each day. When you’re unemployed, you might find that you’re actually working harder than ever. Plus, the stress is highly taxing – both mentally and physically. It’s important to re-energise and boost your morale by engaging in activities that bring you pleasure.

* Try to spend an hour each day doing something you love. Whether you immerse yourself in a hobby or a good book, or even just take a nap, enjoy your special time however you like. Pamper yourself. You deserve it! Learn something new or take an online course to boost your job skills and add that to your resume.

Finding a new job almost always takes longer than we want it to; remember it’s a job in itself. You can stay motivated – using these tips. Stay focused and dedicated, and your persistence will pay off.

By Donnie L.