Looking for work really is a full time job. It can be all-consuming and arduous. Well-intentioned people will prattle that if one door closes another one opens, any you're feeling like not only are there no doors, there also seems to be no windows. A tell tale sign you need to shift your focus a little. A couple things I remind myself of or do to help are to remember that:

1. Sitting in front of a computer 24/7 isn't the best, so get out and go for a walk, go workout, work from a cafe or other environment.

2. Recruiters are good, or not so good. But mostly they are not working for me, they are working for their clients. If it seems I can help their client, that is a win/win. But they are not in the business of finding me a job.

3. Determine ahead of time how many hours a day to devote to a job search, and spend the rest of your time bettering yourself. Learn new skills or polish existing skills. There's always room for improvement!

4. Read. Educate yourself on your craft, trends, what's going on in the world. Be informed!

5. Self-soothe. Tell yourself it will work out, be optimistic and recognize that if something doesn't come through, that something else is probably getting closer.

6. Help someone else. It's what I tell my kids when they complain about how their lives suck (seriously??) or that they're bored. Go out and do something nice for someone else.

7. Keep regular hours and a schedule and stick to it.

8. Know your worth. If you accept something knowing it's not the right thing, it's very likely it won't work out. Walk away from those situations and people that you just know will be toxic.In your personal or professional life.

9. Be honest. Always.

10. Each day find 3 things to appreciate, just 3. Small or large, it doesn't matter, but it helps to see everything in a better light.

Now...back to the job search...