3 Ways to Stay Positive on the Job Search

A job search can be a roller coaster of emotions. It's thrilling as you begin but can quickly become intimidating and daunting. In fact, the negativity that can take over your mindset can distract you from your initial goals and lead you to settle for less than what you’re truly worth. Although the emotional twists and turns that accompany the job search are unavoidable, there are a few ways to keep them from throwing you off the rails.

1. Surround Yourself with Optimism

On your job search, you're likely going to face the harsh critics, you're most likely going to receive several automated rejection e-mails, and you may not get the callbacks you were hoping for. Despite the drawbacks you may face, the energy you surround yourself with can quickly bring you back up. So, during your search, periodically connect with your friends or family members who not only share your vision but also believe in you. Don't just rely on other people but also surround yourself with optimistic and inspirational content. This could mean reading up on motivational pieces, listening to inspirational podcasts, watching TED talks, and so on.

2. Shift Your Focus

Since the job search can be long and slow, it can get disheartening, especially if you are not getting the return on your efforts that you thought you would. With that being said, it can help you to stay confident if you re-direct your focus away from the daunting rejections, the lack of feedback and the slow decision-making, and instead focus on sending more job applications, writing out a few more e-mails to HR and connecting with recruiters on LinkedIn.

3. Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Keep the spotlight on what you started the search for. The bigger paycheck? The superior job title? More meaningful job responsibilities? A better work environment? Continue to remind yourself why you started this journey and what will be waiting for you on the other side as the fruit of your own hard work, commitment, and discipline. This mentality will help you maintain your enthusiasm throughout the process.

No matter where you are in your career, making the decision to start a job search is as exciting as it is nerve-wracking. Maintaining a positive mindset can ease the process and help you avoid any rushed decisions. Although it’s easier said than done, taking it day by day and staying aware of your mindset is sure to be a great way to start.

Heidy Abdel Kerim is Vault's Marketing Associate. You can find her sharing Vault's latest career articles, job and internship search tips, and motivational content on Vault's Twitter, Instagram, and other social media accounts.