How do you remain positive and keep feelings of hope present during a longer than anticipated period of unemployment? In the book of Psalms 40, King David writes “I waited patiently.” For some, fear is worrying about the future but in the bible we are told to not be afraid 365 times. You must fight discouragement. Fear and faith make poor roommates because one dispels the other. Make up your mind to choose to think affirming thoughts and reject negative thinking that can plummet one into depression if left unchecked. For many, an unmet ‘want-list’ creates anxiety but contentment occurs in recognizing that needs are met.



While the practical aspects of looking for a job present plenty of challenges, the emotional component cannot be ignored. For some, the emotions of shock, grief, anger, and anxiety that often accompany job loss can thwart job hunting. Everyone feels discouraged at times but you can’t be effective in your job search if you launch into interviews with unchecked emotions popping up.



If you are starting to give in to discouragement, it is time to tune in for self-care. When I ask my clients whether they need some time to rest, some are inspired to give themselves permission to recognize they do just need a break. This situation absolutely requires that you give yourself permission to take an overdue restorative time-out.



Address discouragement and other emotions by taking the time you need – not by doing what others think you should do.



What can you do to transform discouragement into feelings of hope?



1. First, don’t panic

2. Place post-it notes with the word “Breathe” on them in conspicuous locations around the house and in your car

3. Acknowledge feelings of fear. A little healthy fear may motivate but too much can immobilize

4. Engage in activities that will help you move through difficult emotions. Talk with a friend, take a walk or bike ride, listen to music, write in a journal.

5. Avoid beginning and ending your day with negative television and radio news reports about the economy.

6. Prepare a list of 10 self-care items that will help renew your mind, body, and spirit. You may find it difficult to do so, but do it anyway.

7. Enroll in a class, support group, or another self-serving endeavor such as adding a new technology skill to your employment tool box

8. Begin your day early by first making a deposit into your emotional bank account. Write a list of five things you are grateful for each morning

9. Re-charge your batteries. Engage in other positive activities such as devotional readings, meditation, artwork, or exercise. The best form of workout for you is the one you are most likely to participate in

10. You may need to go fishing or engage in other enjoyable and renewing sport activities

11. Talk to someone you trust who will help you shake off negative feelings. Talking it out helps you to take a positive step back

12. Ask for help from a friend or professional and when you are ready, launch into the practical components of job search

13. Do whatever it takes to think about something besides the ongoing job hunt for a little while. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity!

14. Consider a volunteer or internship opportunity

15. Perform information interviews to help expand or narrow options

16. Consider participating in other job hunting activities outlined in my book, such as networking events.



Are you at a fork in the road? Do you want to return to a former, similar, or new job title? You will bring greater enthusiasm and success to your job hunting when you identify what skills you want to use in your next job.



When you are ready, set a structured job search schedule, say between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm daily, or whatever time-frame works for you. No matter what, though, it’s important to keep your self-care in the daily mix to keep encouraged during periods of “waiting patiently” while “not fearing” during job hunting.