How to relax and recharge during your job search

Job searching can be one of the most stressful periods in anyone’s life. The constant cycle of searching for opportunities, tailoring resumes, writing cover letters, and waiting for responses can easily take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. But here’s the truth: you don't need to—and shouldn’t—spend every waking moment hunting for a job.

Now that it's summer: taking time to relax and recharge is important. Not just for your sanity, but for the effectiveness of your search. In this article we'll explain how to find that balance.

Set boundaries and stick to a schedule

Feel like you should be job hunting 24/7? Stop for a minute. Rather than searching day and night, treat your job search like an actual job. Create a schedule where you allocate your hours for tasks regarding job searching. That way, you won't feel overwhelmed at the end of the day.

Example:

Mornings: Search for suitable jobs on LinkedIn, Indeed, Monsterboard and company websites.

Afternoons: Customizing your CV and motivation letters to certain job listings.

Evenings: Log off, relax, enjoy your time off (while you can, haha).

Boundaries are essential in finding that balance. You don't want to start already burned out at your new job, right?

Take time for your hobbies and interests

Now that you have some more time on your hands, why not spend it doing the things you love? Whether it's reading, painting, cooking, or picking up a new skill, engaging in hobbies can give you a much-needed mental break from the job search.

Practice mindfulness and stress relief techniques

Mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or even just taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing can significantly reduce stress. These practices help you stay present, keeping your anxiety in check and your mind clear.

If you find yourself getting overwhelmed, take a moment to step away from your computer, stretch, or take a short walk. These simple actions can help you reset and return to your job search with a refreshed perspective.

Reflect on your progress

Don't feel down when you don't see immediate results. As cheesy as it sounds: every step counts. Reflect on what you've accomplished so far - whether it's updating your resume, sending out job applications or landing an interview. You go!

Celebrate the small wins. Positive reinforcement will keep you motivated and remind you that progress is happening, even if it feels slow.

Key takeaways

Sprinting towards your next job isn't ideal. Rather, treat it like a marathon (or triathlon, if you're feeling ambitious). Pacing yourself is the key to reaching the finish line strong and steady. By setting boundaries, engaging in hobbies, practicing mindfulness, connecting with others, and reflecting on your progress, you can maintain your well-being and keep your job search on track. Taking time to chill and recharge isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. So, give yourself permission to rest. Your well-being and future self will thank you.