Managing Stress

As professionals in a difficult economy, stress and tension can easily enter our lives and stay there.  For those managing a search without a position, stress can become overwhelming.  In order to minimize the constant feeling of agitation and anxiousness it is key to manage the search in a way that we feel in control.  Here are a few things to try that will make your work life and job search less stressful.

Decide how much time you are going to spend searching for a new position.  And once the decision is made, stick to it.  Whether it is one hour or half a day it is critical that the time you spend pays off.  Make a plan for each day and work the plan.  Keep track of efforts and results and tweak accordingly.

Whatever the plan work in an organized fashion.  One day you may dedicate to identifying companies where you want to work.  The next you might spend phoning contacts.  The next day you might dedicate to submitting targeted resumes and cover letters.  Spending all day in front of the computer and reacting to internet postings is not an organized or effective way to mount a job search.

While you are managing a job search either as an employed or unemployed person it is a great time to make yourself a priority.  Identify other goals that are important to you and work toward them.  If you have more free time than you used to, clear up you’re to do list, learn something new, and revitalize important relationships.

And perhaps most important of all do not lose your sense of humor.  Do not take rejection personally Do not allow your mind to become permanently darkened by work life stress.  Approach your search as a serious matter but allow yourself to smile as you do it.  Keep in contact with people and activities that keep your spirits high.

Stress is a factor in many lives.  But to diminish its very negative effects it is key to approach our job search and work life with seriousness, dedication and a smile. Try it.