“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” — Jim Ryun
Job search can be tiresome and can really make you question your abilities, but as they say it: Nothing worth having comes easy. Sometimes, we also need that kick of job search motivation when everything seems to be not falling in place. At the same time, you also need to start with yourself on how you can keep going.
So, let’s go back to the basics and look from within. With that, here are some ways you should try on how to stay positive during a job search.
Be intentional with your daily routine.
Having a daily routine is already a cliché in job search motivation tips, but sticking to a pattern that works for you can help you get more done. Putting effort into setting specific time blocks for each task you need to do makes them more manageable.
Further, try to redo the way you do your to-do lists. “Rewrite resume,” “connect with headhunters,” and “search for jobs in social media” are examples of overwhelming tasks which can be too vague as well. Instead, break down your to-do’s into small tasks, so that it will be easier for you to tick off one at a time.
Write your goals.
As much as you can, go back to analog and write down all your goals and dreams on paper. Making time to do this will force you to sit down, reflect, and think about what you really want to achieve. Doing this can also help you see the bigger picture of your career goals and motivate you to achieve one goal at a time.
Also, put your ultimate goal or even a life verse or quote on a piece of paper that you can always see. So whenever you’re on your computer or phone searching for your next job, you’ll be reminded of why you started and why you need to keep going.
Have role models.
It’s also a good idea to have someone to look up to. Search up and reach out to people who have your dream jobs or those who are working in companies you’re interested in. Look at their credentials, experiences, or even their achievements to inspire you.
Better yet, you may also try to look up interesting success stories online, those who talk about their downfalls. Doing this can make you realize that you’re not alone. Even those who are already successful didn’t always cross their paths easily.
Focus on what you can control.
At the end of the day, it all boils down to how we handle things. Being aware that you can’t control everything that happens helps you let go of things that don’t really matter. This way, you can make space and time for more important tasks. Thus, you’ll be able to finish more job search to-do’s.
Bonus! Lastly, here are some job search motivation quotes to help you stay positive during your job search and keep going:
- “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” — Winston Churchill
- “Fear regret more than failure.” — Taryn Rose
- “Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.” — Theodore Roosevelt
- “If opportunity doesn’t knock, then build a door.” — Milton Berle
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