When A Job Search Mentally Breaks You

Join us as we talk about…

In this week’s episode…

• You’ll learn the most important aspect of facing rejection is resiliency
• Next, make sure you’re being your own biggest advocate
• Finally, organization can provide mental peace

My job search broke me Isaiah, I need a break. I made it to the site visit and I just got a rejection. This job was perfect for me. What should I do? I hear this all the time from highly intelligent people with very valuable degrees and it’s heartbreaking every time.

Searching for a job can be a challenging and emotionally taxing process, particularly when you face multiple rejections along the way. Maintaining mental strength is crucial for persevering and ultimately landing the right job.

Here, I want to explore effective strategies to help you stay mentally strong during your job search, even when faced with rejection.

The most important aspect of facing rejection is resiliency. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, and it’s a key trait to cultivate during a job search. Of course, you can only gain resiliency by being rejected. So see every set back as a set up to be stronger moving forward. Understand that rejection is a common part of the process and doesn’t define your worth or capabilities.

Each rejection is an opportunity for growth and improvement. One thing that can help you bounce back quicker is maintaining a routine. A job search, rejection or abject unemployment can disrupt your daily routine, leading to a sense of aimlessness. Establish and stick to a daily routine that includes job searching, exercise, self-care, and time for personal interests. Routine provides structure and helps maintain a sense of purpose.

Make sure you’re being your own biggest advocate too. Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism. Job searching can be disheartening, but remember that it’s a challenging endeavor for everyone.

Acknowledge your efforts and accomplishments, no matter how small, and celebrate them. And even if you’re good at advocating for yourself. You should still create a support network. Share your feelings and experiences with friends, family, or a support group. Talking about your challenges and frustrations can provide emotional relief and valuable perspectives. You’re not alone in your job search journey. It is a journey though, and the key to getting through any journey is to set goals so you can stay on track.

Establish clear, achievable goals for your job search. Focus on what you can control, such as the number of applications you submit, networking events you attend, or skills you improve. Setting realistic goals boosts your motivation and confidence.

View each rejection as an opportunity to learn and grow. Ask for feedback when possible, and use it to refine your approach. Remember that a rejection may mean that the job wasn’t the right fit for you.

Finally, organization can provide mental peace. Just like establishing a routine can help you recover from rejection more quickly, maintaining a well-organized job search process can give you a constant sense of certainty amidst the very uncertain process of applying to jobs. Keep track of applications, interviews, and follow-ups using a spreadsheet or a job search app. Staying organized reduces stress and ensures you’re not missing out on opportunities.

Above all, remember that persistence is key. Job searching can be a marathon rather than a sprint. Keep moving forward, learn from each experience, and stay open to opportunities that may come your way. By embracing resilience, practicing self-compassion, seeking support, and maintaining a healthy routine, you can maintain your mental strength and increase your chances of eventually securing the right job for you.