10 Ways to Reduce Job Search Anxiety.Job search anxiety is one of the most common feelings people experience when they’re looking for a new job. But it’s important to keep in mind that you’re not alone and there are ways to reduce your anxiety and stress during the job search process.
According to Judson Brewer, a psychiatrist and chief medical officer at wellness company Sharecare, job search anxiety can stem from three main factors.
- Get Organized
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your job search, getting organized can be a great way to reduce your stress. Organization also helps you keep track of tasks and deadlines, reducing the risk of missing crucial information or losing track of important projects.
Organizing can feel empowering and exciting, which will make it easier for you to stick with it in the long run. It can also help you focus on your goals instead of feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
- Stay Busy
Staying busy is one way to help with job search anxiety. It can help you focus on the things that matter most and put your mind in a positive, productive space.
Keeping yourself busy can also boost your creativity. It can help you think more creatively about ways to solve problems and improve your skills.
- Pursue More Than One Opportunity
Taking on more than one opportunity at a time is the best way to reduce stress and get you in the door of your dream job. A high quality resume and a well-crafted cover letter are all part of the package. It’s also a good idea to stay on top of your game by keeping in touch with your network. You never know when your next big break may come knocking.
- Take Breaks
Taking breaks throughout your job search is important for your mental health, and also helps you feel more energetic and refreshed. Whether it’s going for a walk, playing a game, reading a book, or simply spending time with your family, you can benefit from short intervals where you turn your attention and focus to something that relaxes and rejuvenates you.
Creating a job search schedule with regular off days is also helpful to give you time to recharge. Having a plan in place can help you keep your job search anxiety under control so that you can continue to pursue opportunities when they open up.
- Get Support
One of the best ways to deal with job search anxiety is to get support. This can be from friends or family, a therapist or career counselor, or even an online support group.
Having someone to chat with gives you a chance to vent and get some perspective on your situation. Getting some emotional support can help ease your job search anxiety and depression.
- Identify Situations That Trigger Your Anxiety
If you have an anxiety disorder, identifying situations that trigger your anxiety can be extremely helpful. It can help you develop coping strategies so that you can avoid panic attacks and feel more confident in your ability to overcome difficult situations.
Identifying your personal triggers can take time, but it’s important to do so. You can start by keeping a journal, downloading an anxiety app, or working with a mental health specialist.
- Stay Focused
Focus is a powerful tool that allows you to accomplish more in less time. It can also help you avoid distractions, take control of your time, and protect yourself from burnout.
When you stay focused, you can make progress on the job search process. This can reduce your anxiety and keep you motivated to continue.
- Don’t Over complicate Things
One of the best ways to reduce job search anxiety is to keep things simple. Set realistic goals for your search, such as updating your LinkedIn profile or sending a few referrals.
It’s also a good idea to keep your mind off your search by taking a break from it all. Having fun, connecting with people, and getting fresh air will help you regain your composure.
- Don’t Let Comparisons Get You Down
You may not realize it, but comparing yourself to others can negatively affect your self-image and motivation. So, it’s important to keep yourself focused on your strengths and accomplishments.
Avoid comparing yourself to other people, especially when they’re doing things that you want to do. It can lead to feelings of envy and discontentment.
- Reach Out for Help
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, reaching out for help can be the best way to cope. It will help you feel less alone and give you the support you need to move forward.
Job hunting can be an incredibly stressful process, which can leave you feeling depressed. It’s important to get support from the right people and to be honest about your situation.