Managing self-care while job searching

Searching for work can seem like a full-time job that leaves very little room for anything else. However, despite the circumstances, **it’s important for you to remember to take care of yourself. **

During the #Coronavirus pandemic, we are SO focused on survival that oftentimes we forget about ourselves, our needs, our goals, and our happiness.

Let’s take a look at some self-care tips and great habits to form in order to keep your head clear and out of the job search blues.

Set goals

We know the objective of the entire journey is to find a job, but what about all of those little milestones along the way? By setting a series of “mini-goals” along the way of your search helps ensure you don’t feel discouraged. Some examples could be:

• Apply to 3-5 new jobs per day
• Network with two new people in my industry
• Ask two people to provide feedback on my resume.

Your goals could also be something completely unrelated to the job search! For example:

• Exercise three times this week
• Master a new recipe I found online
• Finally, clean out my closet of old clothes

Although accomplishments may not necessarily help you land the job you’re aiming for, but it will undoubtedly give you a sense of pride, accomplishment, and get you in the right mental state!

Celebrate your wins

Reward yourself for all of the hard work you are putting into your #jobsearch! Making sure you are refreshed and energized is crucial for a successful journey. Don’t drain yourself by not allowing for any fun. Recognize your wins, big or small! Maybe you received a call back from an employer, or you updated your #resume and are proud of the result. Whatever accomplishment, take the time to celebrate the win!

Socialize virtually

Don’t lose your touch with the outside world just because you’re applying for jobs! Intense job hunting can be an isolating endeavor, but don’t let it hinder your relationships. Friends and family are excellent sources of motivation and happiness so make sure to keep in touch. Join online communities with others like yourself or take a virtual class. Airbnb is now offering a variety of AMAZING and affordable virtual experiences where you can learn and experience new things with others from all over the world! It's pretty awesome so make sure to check it out!

Stay active + healthy

Taking care of your physical and mental health is so important to your overall wellbeing and motivation. The better you feel, the more confident and productive you will be! There has been a lot of research proving that physical exercise provides countless mental health benefits, including alleviating anxiety, minimizing stress, and increasing brain function. Make sure to exercise regularly and fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to function (don't skip breakfast).

At the end of the day just remember a happy you is a better you!

How are you taking care of yourself while you search for a job?