job hunt blues - are you utilizing your time wisely?

I've been job hunting since July and let me tell you - it hasn't been the easiest. I've actually taken breaks here and there because I've just been feeling so overwhelmed. I've realized the beauty and curse with having no job and lots of free time. You can spend your entire day very productive - going to the gym, taking a long walk to do an errand, cooking every night - you get the idea. The other alternative is feeling bummed out about your search that leads you to lounge around watching TV, and the next thing you know, nothing was accomplished. I've found a few ways to keep myself busy during this unpredictable time and I'd like to think it'll help you put some things in perspective (if you haven't done so already)!

1. Write a to-do list.

I write my to-do list on a field notes book I received at an event hosted by Vitamin T

I know you may have heard this before, but writing a to-do list really works for me. If I don't write a list, I may not get anything done. A to-do list will also make you feel accomplished, and you'll start to be more accountable to yourself, insuring that you're always doing something to reach a particular goal for the day.

2. Go on an adventure!

This has been the most exciting thing for me since the job hunt started. I love to walk around and enjoy the scenic views in Chicago. It's a bit cold now so I limit my adventures to going out with friends on weekends or one to two times a week. Either way, you are allowing yourself some play time without getting overly stressed out about the job market. Thank goodness for my new Chi friends, as we always find exciting ways to entertain each other, whether it's a birthday party or dinner at someone's lovely home.

3. Grab lunch or dinner with a pal.

This is probably the easiest way to catch up with peeps during the week - if you go to them and have lunch! My friend Libby and I always reunite at Nordstrom (as she's obsessed with Panda Express). In any case, this is great way to take a break from your regular job hunt search.

4. Figure out a plan B.

photo co. google images

Don't put all your eggs in one basket by only applying to jobs. Weigh other options like going back to school, traveling or joining the Peace Corps. You have to make moves either way, so why not be creative and consider of all your options? Make sure you really sit down and brainstorm what you could do and in the meantime (if you are short on cash), take a job in retail or doing something mundane so that you are making ends meet.

5. Read and network!

If you're applying for a job in social media (like I've been doing) it's imperative that you keep up with the latest trends. The best way to do this is to read Mashable, Techcrunch, Linked in and to post on social media networks. You might also want to attend events. I've been doing all these things so that I'm aware of recent trends that are happening or new tools being used to optimize a company's social media presence. I also highly recommend reading Likeable Social Media (which I've mentioned before). Stay connected with your field and eventually something will work out - believe it!

6. Exercise or do a little yoga!

photo co. google images 

I love this story on buffer about 6 simple things you can do every day to be consistently happy. In the article, Joel talks about how he exercises every day, which helps him be able to face challenges more strongly and get better sleep! For me, running twice a week and doing yoga on Wednesdays makes all the difference in the world, and once it's time for my monthly cycle, I feel better and can handle more work in my day.

7. Do something you love everyday!

I love cooking and one thing I've started to enjoy is vacuuming. With a cat, things can get a little messy so I always take pleasure in keeping the apartment clean and by cooking a new meal every day or as often as I can when I'm not attending events. This helps you feel accomplished, less cluttered and healthier (because you are making food from scratch). I also post videos of my best meals via my instagram.

I know it's hard out there trying to stay positive about getting a job, but remember if you're not going to be happy and take this challenge head on, who else will? Get out of your rut and begin brainstorming ideas that will change your life for the better. Think of the great things you can do and maybe you were meant to do that thing all along, or that job you didn't think you'd get is waiting for you! Keep the faith and practice some of these tips. I guarantee you'll begin to feel at ease and happier.