Here’s How You Can Practice Self-Care During the Job Hunt

As a young professional, I know firsthand how stressful job seeking can be. From the initial steps of filling out applications and shaky phone screening to the sweat-inducing group interview and that in-between, waiting period where time seems to stretch on forever. Not to mention the real possibility of being rejected at any point in the process! We all know the job hunt can be anxiety-producing. So when you’re in the thick of it, it’s important to regularly check in and take some time for self-care.

As for how to tend to yourself? There are many listicles out there that go into great detail about which face mask is best and the importance of “treatin’ yo self,” but the reality is, self-care is entirely individual. What works for me may not work for you. And even further, what works for me now might not work for me later! Self-care isn’t a static list of things you could do to feel better — it’s a continuous process that must be reevaluated as you grow and change.

To help you out on your journey, I’ve come up with a list of simple questions that will help you determine the best self-care options for you.

1. How am I feeling right now?

Sounds like an easy one, but you would be surprised how often this initial question is skipped over. Having trouble putting words to your feelings? Take 2-5 minutes in a quiet space and write out the first words or phrases that come to mind, without stopping. Chances are, at the end of those few minutes, you may be able to point out what was alluding you before.

2. What hurts?

I wholeheartedly believe that this is the most important step in effectively caring for yourself; if you can’t identify the stressor, you won’t be able to find the remedy for it. Take a minute to think about what’s really bothering you – and don’t feel ashamed to admit that the process really isn’t fun or easy. Next time you’re feeling low, ask yourself: is the barista who messed up your order what’s causing your frustration, or could it really be that you have yet to hear back about your last application?

3. What can I do about it?

Now that you’ve done the hard work of identifying how you’re feeling and what’s bothering you, the next question you want to ask is action-oriented. Oftentimes, a job hunt involves one of my least-favorite activities – waiting. I find myself waiting for feedback, for answers, for a response. And all of those things that involve waiting, also involve other people. To keep your spirits up, you may want to ask yourself if there’s anything you can do to make yourself feel better during this stressful time.

4. What should I do first?

The answer to this question is whatever you want! You know you better than anyone else – even if it’s uncomfortable to dive into the reality of how the job hunt makes you feel, you’re doing all the hard work, and you deserve to feel appreciated. Take a long walk, call your best friend, soak in a bubble bath, pet a dog, find that stress-reducing face mask, or read a book.

5. How can I be kind to myself today?

I know, I know. You may not want to hear about it, but it’s the truth – you will feel better if you remember to be kind to yourself. I’m not talking about anything fancy – maybe, set a reminder on your phone to take a Monday mid-morning coffee break or write out a few things you’re looking forward to over the weekend and place it somewhere visible at your desk. You may feel better about your job hunt if you take the time to reflect on all of the wonderful work you’re already doing.

Like I said before, self-care isn’t a stationary to-do list – it’s a continuous process that requires your continued attention. It’s a big deal to look for a job, and it takes a strong, determined person to keep at it. You need some self-love to keep up the fight, so be kind to yourself.