You’ve been job searching for a while. What can you do to keep your spirits up?

When I'm job searching, I contact old bosses, coworkers, and friends, and pretty much anyone I haven’t talked to in awhile. People who care about you are rooting for you. Thus, it feels really good to hear their encouragement and support…you just have to reach out and ask for it. Beyond reconnecting with people who build you up, it’s also a smart move to get your name out there and put yourself top of mind. Perhaps your long-lost friend in Albuquerque can connect you to someone at a company you're interested in. Or, your old boss may have turned down a job that he’s overqualified for, but you’d be a perfect fit. Ultimately, your network is there to support and encourage you, so let them!

Throughout the week, take some time for your mental health and give yourself a break. Meditate. Snuggle with your pet. Read a magazine or book. Write in a journal. Learn all the lyrics to your favorite song. Look through photos. Take a long shower or bath. Shoot hoops. Work on a puzzle. Try to learn a language. Make a doctor’s appt. Take some silly selfies. Sketch the human form. Scrub your toilet. Go for a bike ride. Work on your cartwheel. Eat some blueberries. Wash your sheets. Or, all of the above. The point is — get up, get away from the computer, and go do something. Not social media. Not reading articles online. Not watching TV or videos. Just do something that will make you feel good (it’s watching animal videos for me).

Receiving rejections can be disheartening, but it's important to view them as learning opportunities. Take the time to assess and reflect on the reasons behind the rejection. Seek feedback whenever possible, embrace a growth mindset to see rejections as steppingstones for personal and professional growth. Use the feedback received to enhance your skills and knowledge in specific areas. Don't hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or career professionals, as they can provide valuable advice and support. Stay persistent and maintain a resilient attitude!! Remember that each rejection brings you closer to finding the right job opportunity.

Put something on your calendar to look forward to -- the anticipation will motivate you through the job search drudgery and give you something to work towards. Plan a weekend trip to a fun destination. Visit a friend or take a roadtrip to a city you’ve never been to in your state. If budget is an issue, take a picnic lunch to a local park and spend the afternoon reading. Look up free events in your hometown. Go for a long bike ride and explore your neighborhood. Meet a good friend for a fun lunch. Go to a matinee movie. Join a book club. Set up a potluck supper for a group of friends. Go to a local sporting event. Take advantage of this free time and enjoy yourself a bit, because once you are employed, your freedom will be limited.