Got Dem Old Job-Huntin' Blues

In a book I wrote earlier in my career (Winning Job Interviews) the first chapter was titled "Why Job-Hunting Sucks - and what to do about it!" A major theme was that most folks did not understand that the essential nature of job hunting is one of rejection. Job after job, opportunity after opportunity, lead after lead does not work out. And then finally, a ray of sunshine pushes through the bleak clouds above and - ta da - the stars align and an offer (and not just any offer but a good offer) comes through. If you feel downtrodden by the jobhunting process and ready to throw in the towel, I'd advise you to plumb Amazon for a copy of that book which really digs into the problem (and what to do about it.). You may even find it in your library.

But maybe you're just a bit frustrated that things aren't moving quickly enough. Or maybe you just need a supportive kick in the butt to re-energize your search. Here are a few motivational strategies to jump start your search.

Paths Forward

? Follow your favorite motivational expert / speaker. Set alerts for his / her new postings. Read those couple of motivational books you bought or were gifted but are still getting dusty on your bookshelf. Go to my website and peruse the LifeMap Archive for more practical career advice. For a spiritual lift and just maybe a timely divine message go to my friend Cheryl Richardson's website and click the "Touch of Grace" button and sign up for her newsletter.

? Revisit those you plan on using for job references. Make sure they're still ready and wiling to sing your praises. Check to see if any interesting leads or insights have come their way since you last touched base. It's always nice to hear from your boosters and I bet they'd be plenty pleased to hear from you.

? Monitor your health, diet, exercise routine, alcohol consumption. Make time for that belated physical or vaccine you've been meaning to get.

? Journal. You'd be surprised how many ideas you let slip between your fingers. It never hurts to end a daily entry with "Today I'm grateful for - - - -. " Think how hard this search would be without vision, in a wheelchair, or from a flat in Kyiv with no water or heat. Humility is a great motivator.

LifeMap: What did today teach you about your plan for tomorrow?