Since I was a little too upset to blog directly after the lay off, I didn’t get to document the emotional roller coaster I was on. Sometimes (even six weeks after) that crazy bunch of emotions lets me on the ride again, free of charge. Today, I took a few rides.
Most of the time I feel energized, fueled with passion and ready to get my hands dirty in a whole bunch of tasks at once—learning the ins and outs of SEO, participating in a webinar on personal branding and compiling a list of indoor activities for kids, all in one day. And I’m totally cool with that and look forward to it, but sometimes I lose a little motivation, usually after some job news. Today’s news was only half bad, but still left me feeling discouraged.
I understand I’m not the only one feeling this way, so I wanted to share where I turn for a little career pick-me-up.
1- Your first job acceptance package. Mine is still in my inbox and though it makes me a bit sad, it reminds me that if I did it once, I can do it again.
2- Cards from co-workers. Almost everyplace I’ve worked or interned has given me a card at some point. A birthday, my last day, get well soon, etc. I keep all the cards along with others from friends and family in a pretty memory box, and read their positive messages: “You have such a can-do attitude,” “We are going to miss your smile” and “You are so intelligent and willing, it keeps us all motivated.” Those are nice statements to revisit when you’re down in the dumps about your career.
3- Read about how others are dealing with the economy. So many people are frustrated and struggling right now and many are willing to share—their stories are helpful in getting you through days like this. Don’t just think standard inspirational stories; I found this one today about living in a world of abundance and it really resonated with me.
4- Step away from your computer. Sometimes you just need to clear your head, stop reading articles (I know this contradicts yesterday’s post) and get some fresh air. Look for a job and work on your freelance assignments later, and take an hour walk to relax. Simply getting away from your home office can be very liberating and effective.
5-After your break, jump right back into it. Don’t take too much time away from your work either. You don’t want to lose your motivation or get tangled in your own disappointment. Nothing is going to fall in your lap (except maybe a winning lotto ticket. Hey, you never know.), so you still have to make things happen. I find that after I clear my head, the best way to get geared up again is to dive right back in.
Till tomorrow,
C
