12 Ways to Handle the Emotional Side of Job Loss and Job Search

Losing a job or facing rejection after rejection while searching for a job can wreak havoc on your self-esteem. Insecurities come alive, defenses build, anger thrives, depression may even set in. The questions “Am I worthy?” and “Am I good enough?” loom right below the surface. The emotional impact of joblessness can be huge, and it can cause a downward spiral unless special care is taken.

So how do you build positive momentum after feeling the stinging rejection that often comes with job loss?

Below you will find 12 ways to handle the emotional side of job loss and job search. If you do take special care, you will find yourself bouncing back perhaps to a greater place than you could have ever imagined.

• Avoid “If only…” Accept where you are in the here and now and focus on what you need to do moving forward. The only reason to look back is to identify and learn from your mistakes. “If only” gets you nowhere. It is a waste of time and energy.

• Find the unexpected opportunity. What calls to you? Think outside the box. You may be missing something that is right in front of you. 
• Embrace the climb. Thinking that every opportunity that presents itself is beneath you, may paralyze you. Some opportunities may just be stepping-stones leading to where you ultimately want to be. Have the courage to build.
• List your strengths. When are you at your best? What is easy to do? What do you do well? 
• Form a small support group. Find someone who encourages and inspires you. Surround yourself with positive energy. 
• Find value in what you are going through. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from this experience?” How is this experience going to help me grow personally and professionally?”
• Focus on self-growth rather than focusing on the behavior of others. Drop defenses and take personal accountability. What is an ideal employee like? Ask yourself, “How can I grow and improve?”
• Give up false modesty. Practice describing your real strengths. Embrace them. Expand on them. Exude them!
• Make finding a job your job. Be persistent.
• Be one who bounces back. Read articles and books about highly resilient people.
• Stay balanced. Expect to be hired, but be emotionally prepared to be turned down.
• Be courageous. Fight fear with faith, preparation, hard work, and persistence. Don’t let the fear of rejection get in your way. Go after every job like it is the one that you are going to get, but be prepared to land that dream job after 99 rejections. If it comes earlier, you will be thrilled. Don’t give up!

Now it’s your turn. If you have faced job loss or on-going job search, what have you found to be helpful?

This post was based on a post originally written by Al Siebert, Ph.D, author of The Resiliency Advantage. To view the original post go to theresiliencycenter.com.