4 Tips to De-Stress Your Job Search (pt. II)

3. Get out every day, even if it’s just a walk through your back yard. Visit your local library, and yes, the local unemployment office. Being unemployed doesn’t mean you need to be in seclusion, facing the uphill battle all on your own.


Don’t overlook transition assistant programs for those who’ve left the military, the resources provided from local employment centers, and the benefits that result from *just talking with people.*


Here’s another “insider tip” that few use: visit your Chambers of Commerce. You’d be amazed how wonderful the people are who man these offices [I've served on countless executive boards and committees over the years] … and wow, what a terrific resource they can be. These people are so helpful, and I *guarantee* you won’t leave your Chamber’s office unsatisfied. For example, they can provide details on upcoming business networking events (great for meeting professionals in your area), provide you with a membership directory (packed full of local companies, addresses, and sometimes, contact names), and on occasion can provide job leads.


Need additional ideas for getting out every day?
■ Meet your significant other for lunch; brainstorm on job-search strategies and ideas worth pursuing. In fact, ask for more than just advice … ask for hands-on help. An extra pair of eyes and hands can go a long way.
■ Go yard sale-ing – crazy! I know. =] It’s fun though … and fun is a great de-stresser. Ah, but mention you’re searching for a job as you casually peruse each sale’s offerings. You’ll be amazed how many job leads you’ll uncover using this unorthodox method.
■ Join area business groups that have “power lunch sessions” – many of the ABWA groups have daily power lunch meetings for professionals wanting that daily “kick in the pants” of motivation.


4. Grab a drink and curl up with a good book. Never overlook the calming effect of just sitting still and taking time for yourself. If you feel guilty stepping away from your job-search, opt for a self-help book to brush up your time management skills, or whatever skill you wish to improve upon, or go with something like the following:


What Color is Your Parachute, written by Richard Nelson Bolles [a great read]
Who Moved My Cheese, written by Spencer Johnson [funny stuff]


You may be jobless, but you are never, never useless or worthless. And don’t you forget it!
http://www.careerealism.com/4-de-stressing-tips-for-your-job-search/


Teena Rose is a crafty 10-year career writer — not your run-of-the-mill resume specialist. She’s noted as a resume 2.0 strategist, understanding that today’s job-search is increasingly dominated by the next generation of job-search tools. You can find her on Twitter, on LinkedIn and on her website.


Click here to read part 1 of this article