The Secret to Maintaining Emotional Balance When You’re Unemployed

Being unemployed can stir up strong emotions even during ordinary times. When you add on the uncertainty of living through a pandemic, you may feel overwhelmed. How can you maintain emotional balance if you’re looking for a new position under these conditions? 

Chances are you’re dealing with the usual hardships related to being laid off, but you may have fewer available solutions. You’re receiving rejection letters and worrying about your finances. Yet, it’s more difficult to go to job fairs or invite a contact out for coffee. 

Paying extra attention to your overall wellbeing will help you to navigate this difficult time and keep your job hunt on track. 

Try these tips for protecting your peace of mind while you’re jobless. 

Tips for Managing Stress: 

1. Set realistic goals. When the outcomes are beyond your control, you can still set process goals, such as submitting at least 3 applications each week. You may also want to extend your timeline, so you’ll feel less pressured if job offers take a while to come through. 

2. Maintain routines. Structuring your days will make you feel more secure. Enjoy regular mealtimes and keep up with your hobbies. 

3. Take time to relax. You’ll accomplish more if you take refreshing breaks. Go for a walk around the block or in your local park. 

4. Avoid multitasking. Studies show that trying to do too many things at once makes you more anxious and less productive. Figure out your top priorities and give them your full attention. 

5. Ask for help. If you drink or overeat to reduce tension, you may wind up with more troubles than when you started. Talk things over with a trusted friend or call a hotline to find resources in your community. 

Tips for Practicing Self-Care: 

1. Sleep well. Are you binge watching past your usual bedtime? Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night, so you’ll wake up ready to handle your responsibilities. 

2. Eat healthy. Get most of your calories from whole foods rich in fiber and nutrients. Load up on vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Choose healthy fats and lean proteins. Limit highly processed items like snack cakes and sugary drinks. 

3. Exercise regularly. Shoot for at least half an hour of aerobic activity each day as well as strength training and heavier activity twice a week. Find a variety of activities you can enjoy doing at home or go outdoors to get some fresh air. 

4. Look sharp. Change out of your pajamas each morning and comb your hair, so you’ll be ready for any last-minute Zoom interviews. If you want a makeover, browse online for free hair and beauty apps. 

Tips for Cheering Yourself Up: 

1. Laugh it up. Lighten your mood by adding a little humor to your day. Watch baby animal videos or an episode of your favorite comedy show. Play with your kids and pets. Spend time with family and friends who appreciate your jokes. 

2. Cultivate gratitude. Count your blessings. Start a gratitude journal and read it over when you’re feeling down. Thank others and let them know how they make a positive difference in your life. 

3. Give generously. It can be difficult to notice others’ struggles when you’re caught up in your own situation. However, giving will make you feel happier and increase your self-esteem. Offer to go grocery shopping for an elderly neighbor or volunteer online for a worthy cause. 

It will be easier to cope if you take care of yourself while you look for your next career opportunity. Treat yourself with compassion and follow a daily plan that will help you to manage stress and target your efforts.