Have you entered a room full of people, and immediately felt the tension? Maybe it wasn’t a group of people, but a single person who was always dwelling on the negative and sucking everyone around them into the vortex of their turmoil. I had a friend refer to those situations and people as energy vampires.
Most people understand life happens, things come up, plans change and sometimes life just sucks, but it’s what we do in the situation that makes the difference. It begins with the thought process.
Simply asked, are you sabotaging your career? Are you looking for jobs online thinking you aren’t capable of landing the job? Is your energy low? Are you depressed? Are you walking into interviews doubting your abilities? Are you complaining about the job market?
Our thoughts precede our actions so if you’re thinking negatively about your job search that’s what you’re going to see. You will be so focused on the unfavorable you risk missing the right opportunity.
We all feel depressed sometimes, but instead of it controlling you and your career, take charge, be willing to perceive things differently and take control.
Most of us have a dream career or something close to it. So, a few minutes before you begin your job search, close your eyes and imagine what your day will look like at your desired job. What’s your position?What will your responsibilities be? What type of company? What are your boss and co-workers like? What’s your commute time? Pay? Vacation? Benefits? Imagine yourself doing this job successfully each day before conducting your job search.
There is an app for that. The Mindfulness app is available on iTunes. Here is a brief description: “The Mindfulness App helps you to reduce stress and increase well-being. Scientific research proves that regular practice for 20 minutes a day brings desired effects.” The app goes off randomly during the day and for 67 seconds you think of positive words, phrases, and affirmations. If you break the 67 seconds with negativity, you start over. This programs the brain to begin seeing the positive around you in any situation and at any time.
Take some time to think about your dream job and write down every detail. When finished; fold your paper, place it in an envelope and put it in a safe place. After you begin your new position, pull your paper out, and check off each detail that you received in your new job.
Don’t forget to play! Even if you’re in between jobs, there are cheap or free ways to play and have fun. Meet up with friends, BBQ, play with your kids, read a great book, watch the comedy channel, YouTube or turn on your favorite music. These activities boost endorphins, so play!
Pay it forward. When you’re feeling negative or down, find someone to help. What about the single mom at work? Elderly or disabled neighbor? Child? Volunteer with one of your favorite organizations like Habitat for Humanity or the local library for a few days while you’re looking for work.
If you enjoyed the post, please click the thumbs up icon above and let me know!
Jennifer Owenby offers her combined expertise as a recruiter along with training as a professional resume writer. Please visit ONB Professional Resume Services for additional information and scheduling an appointment. Also, visit here for LinkedIn Profile Services.