Check out these 5 job seeker mental wellness tips for job searching!
We know the hunt for the perfect hourly job can feel like a roller coaster – thrilling ups, nerve-wracking downs, and a lot of waiting in line. But here’s a little secret: you don’t have to ride it alone or let it take a toll on your mental health.
If your current job search is affecting your mental health, you’re not alone. A recent survey reported that almost half (46.8%) of job seekers studied believed their job search negatively impacted their mental health and wellbeing. With the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) reporting that 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, these job search stats aren’t necessarily that surprising.
Taking care of your mental health is crucial to navigating the job search journey successfully. That’s why, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, our team at Juvo Jobs put together some tips to help you keep spirits high and stress low during your job search!
1. Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Small Wins
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a stellar job search. Your first tip is to understand that you might face some setbacks along the way- and that’s okay.
To manage the stress of what may seem like a lengthy process, break your job hunt into bite-sized pieces. Applied to five jobs this week? Awesome! Finished updating your resume (or video intro on our app)? High five! Every step forward is a victory worth celebrating. Give yourself credit for these milestones, and don’t forget to reward yourself. Chocolate, anyone?
2. Establish Boundaries
Job searching can feel like a 24/7 gig, but burnout is real and not fun. Set specific times for job hunting and stick to them, almost like clocking in and out of your shift. Once you’ve hit your job search quota for the day, step away from the phone or computer.
One big way to promote positive mental health is by incorporating movement into your daily routine. Go for a walk, spend some time in the sunshine, or exercise to get the blood pumping. Our personal favorite tip: Invest in a walking pad and binge your favorite TV show while getting in some ‘lazy cardio.’
3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be Your Own BFF
Rejection emails (or no responses at all…) are tough, but they don't define your worth. Be kind to yourself and remember that every "no" gets you closer to a "yes." When you hit a bump in the ‘job search’ road, talk to yourself like you would to a friend. Remind yourself of your strengths and achievements- maybe even list them out for extra practice when you do get the chance to interview.
4. Seek Support and Share the Load
You're not alone in this journey. Reach out to your support network – friends, family, and fellow job seekers. Join online or in-person groups where you can share experiences and get advice. You never know what kind of support your local Facebook group could share! Connecting with others can provide comfort and motivation, making the job search feel less like a solo mission and more like a team effort. The Juvo Jobs community is here for you, too – we’ve got your back!
5. Embrace Mindfulness: Stay Present, Stay Sane
Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a game-changer. Incorporate simple mindfulness practices into your routine to manage stress, or just enjoy your morning coffee without scrolling through job listings. It may sound cliche, but try deep breathing exercises. Studies have shown that when we breathe deeply, we help control stress and anxiety by increasing oxygen flow to the brain (mind blowing 🤯).
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Fun!
Yes, job searching can be daunting, but try to find moments of fun in the process. Maybe it’s a mock interview with a friend that turns into a comedy skit, or maybe it’s showcasing your wittiness in a Juvo Jobs video introduction. Even small business owners, employers, and hiring professionals like a sense of humor from time to time, providing them with a breath of fresh air to their regularly scheduled ‘seriousness’ usually associated with hiring.
Final Thoughts
Remember, your mental health is just as important as landing that job. You can navigate the job search with resilience, confidence, and even a bit of fun. Who knows? Your next great opportunity could be just around the corner.
At Juvo Jobs, we’re rooting for you every step of the way. Reach out to the Juvo Jobs team at admin@juvo360.com for any job search questions or visit our website to learn more. Download the Juvo Jobs app today to experience happy job hunting! 🥳
5 Job Seeker Mental Wellness Tips for Job Search
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