Job Search Stress

An important resource to take advantage of in your job search is the Career Center; their specialized staff can assist you in managing the stress of a job search by helping you become better prepared. But there is much you can do on your own too! Below is a list of tips to help keep the stress from getting the better of you.

GET SUPPORT: In addition to the staff at the Career Center be sure you connect with your friends and family. They can provide helpful information and encouragement. Also, it is important to take time out to just share fun times with those important to you.

GET PREPARED: Do your homework and start early. Leave enough time to investigate your options, learn about your talents, and decide what is a good fit for you. Being prepared in this way really reduces the amount of stress and worry when it comes time to make a decision.

GET ORGANIZED: Most "stressed out" people complain of worrying all the time about the many things they have to do. This is especially true for students because they have so much to juggle. One way to avoid this trap is to utilize list making and schedules. Instead of trying to remember it all in your head make several lists. One master list with all the major goals, and separate lists breaking those goals down into specific tasks. Once it is down on paper, STOP thinking about it except for those times when you are actively working on your job search. This clears the mind of unnecessary worry. You can also incorporate your list with your schedule, so you have a rough idea when you'll get to each task.

GET ACTIVE: Now you can focus your energy into doing rather then thinking. If you start to feel overwhelmed, pace yourself. Even if you only make one phone call per day or complete one task it all adds up. And with each successful step you will feel more confident about the next one.

GET RELAXED: That's right, we often have to actively pursue relaxation rather than just assume it will come as a natural state. Some easy ways to become more relaxed include regular exercise, good sleep habits and enough down time. Specific relaxation exercises such as meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises can also help. Try the following breathing exercise:

ABDOMINAL BREATHING EXERCISE
Find a comfortable spot to sit down and lightly rest your hands on your abdomen. Try to clear your mind and focus only on your breathing. Take deep breaths that reach to the lowest part of your diaphragm (your abdomen will expand and contract if you are doing it properly). Once you inhale, pause, and then exhale slowly letting go of all bodily tension and distracting thoughts. Continue this breathing exercise for at least 10 minutes twice a day and try to do it at the same times each day. You can also do this exercise on an as needed basis during particularly stressful times.

GET HELP: If you find you've tried these techniques but are still struggling, take advantage of services offered at The Counseling Center. CAPS has an entire clinic, the Stress Clinic, devoted to stress management. Contact the office to find out what workshops are being offered. Individual counselors can also help you to more effectively manage stress, talk about the difficulties you are having, and help to create a plan that addresses your specific concerns.