Let’s face it: Finding a job after graduation can be pretty rough. Scouring job-search websites and writing and sending countless resumes and cover letters – only to receive polite rejection letters – can turn even the most optimistic person into a pessimist very quickly. While it may seem bleak at times, persevering and staying positive while on the job hunt is a must. Here are some tips to help you make it through, and with a positive outlook.
Do Something That You Love Each Day
If a seemingly endless job hunt isn’t your idea of a good time, doing something that does make you happy each day is absolutely essential. Whatever it is that you love to do – whether it’s reading, running or even riding a bike – make sure you do it each day. While you may not be spending your time at your dream job, you at least have plenty of time to do other hobbies that can be equally fulfilling, making unemployment not seem so bad after all.
Surround Yourself With Positive People
While it can be easy to commiserate about your woes of joblessness with your equally unemployed friends, beware. Complaining about your unemployment can only make you feel more hopeless and miserable. Instead, surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who encourage you and make you feel happy, even when it’s hard. If you spend enough time with them, their positivity will catch on. Plus, no one’s better at giving a pep talk than your mom!
Do Something That Will Boost Your Career
Even if you don’t yet have a job in your field, you can still work to boost your career. If you have a lot of free time, consider taking an internship in your field, just for the experience. Other great ways to keep current while unemployed is to read journals and articles in your field, or even get a useful certification you don’t yet have. Your new experiences and passion for learning will give you a serious vote of confidence, and increase your chances of landing a job.
Take Time to Exercise
Believe it or not, exercising during your unemployment may be exactly what you need to keep your spirits high. Aside from helping you stave off any extra pounds that lying in your bed with a frozen pizza and a Netflix subscription may add, exercising also has mood-boosting benefits. Getting in a daily sweat session can help to reduce stress and elevate your mood, making life during unemployment a little happier.
Volunteer
While this one may seem more like a chore than anything, volunteering can actually make you happy! Take a little time out of your day to do some good in the world and help those who are less fortunate. Not only will it be a reminder of how lucky you are, but it will also give you a sense of pride to fall back on when you’re feeling a little down in the dumps. I love to volunteer with animals – it’s impossible for me to feel grumpy around cute dogs or fluffy little kittens. If animals aren’t your thing, don’t worry – there are so many non-profits out there that it’s easy to find one that fits your interests.
Remember, This Is Only Temporary
While it may seem that unemployment will never end, at some point it undoubtedly will. So, as hard as it may be, don’t forget that you will indeed land a job – the question isn’t if but when.
If you’re unemployed, searching for jobs may just become your next pastime, whether you like it or not. While there’s no doubt that looking for a job is both a long and discouraging venture, don’t lose your optimism. By doing things you enjoy, getting more experience in your field and simply surrounding yourself with supportive people, your job hunt can be a little less distressing. When your job hunt comes to an end – as all job searches do – and you’re happily employed, you will be thankful for your unwavering optimism when the future was uncertain.
