8 Ways To Effectively Use Emotions while Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Job Searching

At one point or another, we have all been in the place of searching for our next job. We can be on the search for a number of reasons: company wide layoffs, organizational restructuring, we don’t get along with colleagues or bosses, or we just did a bad job and were let go.

So now you have to find that next paycheck.

We all know that looking for a job can be a roller coaster of emotions, especially when it feels like the job market is against you. But the good news is that these emotions can actually be used to your advantage if you approach them with the right mindset and strategy. So let's take a look at some common feelings you might experience during a job search and how you can turn them into positive motivators.

Frustration - Ah, frustration, the feeling that you're spinning your wheels and going nowhere. It can be like trying to open a jar of pickles that just won't budge.

Instead of giving up on the jar (or your job search), take a step back and approach the situation from a different angle. Revisit your resume and cover letter, maybe ask a friend to review it. Or try expanding your search to different industries or job titles. Remember, just because one door closes, it doesn't mean another one won't open.

Fear - Fear can be a powerful emotion, especially when it comes to the unknown. It can be like standing on the edge of a diving board, afraid to take the plunge.

Rather than letting fear paralyze you, use it to propel you forward. Identify what specifically scares you about the job search process and develop a plan to overcome it. For example, if you're afraid of networking, try reaching out to people on LinkedIn or attending a virtual career fair. Remember, courage isn't the absence of fear, it's acting in spite of it.

Doubt - Doubt can be a sneaky feeling that creeps up on you when you least expect it. It can be like trying to build a puzzle without a picture.

Try not to let doubt consume you and instead focus on your strengths and accomplishments. You’ve done a lot to get where you are. Make a list of your achievements and skills, and remind yourself of them when you start to doubt yourself. Just like how you wouldn't start a puzzle without knowing what the finished product looks like, you can't know what job you're perfect for until you identify what you're good at.

Impatience - Impatience can be a tough feeling to shake, especially when it feels like the job search is taking forever. It can be like waiting for water to boil.

Instead of staring at the pot, go do something else while you wait. Volunteer, take an online class, or start a new hobby. Not only will you feel productive, but you'll also have something to talk about during your next interview. Remember, good things come to those who wait, but only if they're actively working towards their goals in the meantime.

Rejection - Rejection is never easy, but it's a natural part of the job search process. It can be like striking out during a baseball game, even though you feel prepared

We can’t let rejection bring us down and we can use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Ask for feedback on your application or interview, and use that information to improve for next time. Just like how a baseball player learns from each pitch they swing at, you can learn from each job application you submit.

Envy - Envy is a tricky feeling that can make you feel like you're falling behind. It can be like watching someone else win a prize that you wanted.

Rather than comparing yourself to others, focus on your own journey and progress. Use the success of others as inspiration to keep pushing forward and improving yourself. Remember that everyone has their own unique journey and timeline, and your time will come.

Exhaustion - The job search process can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. It can be like running a marathon without any training.

Instead of burning yourself out, remember to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Schedule in time for exercise, meditation, or even just taking a walk outside, which is one of my favorite things to do. Taking care of your mental and physical health will actually help you perform better during the job search process. Just like how a marathon runner needs to take care of their body and mind to reach the finish line, you need to take care of yourself to land that job.

The most important tip that can create a good emotion for you, is helping others.In my opinion, it’s one of the most effective ways to amplify your  search and your overall state. 

Offer to review a friend's resume or cover letter, or refer someone you know for a job opening…or just talk with friends who are also on the search.

Not only does this give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment, but it also puts you in the mindset of abundance, where you believe that there are enough opportunities to go around for everyone. By helping others, you may also discover new job leads or gain valuable networking connections. Remember, you're not alone in this job search journey, and sometimes the best way to help yourself is by helping others.

Emotions during a job search can be tough to navigate, but with the right mindset and strategy, they can actually be used to your advantage. Remember, it's all about perspective and how you choose to react to these feelings. Stay positive, stay motivated, and KEEP GOING.