"I'll be happy when I have a job." How many times have you thought that?

Or maybe you have a job, but you want a better one, or a promotion, or more responsibilities.

It's normal (and good) to want more and to work for it, but it can be dangerous when the desire takes over your life.

What if it takes a long time (like this crazy job market)? What if it never happens? Does that mean you'll be sad and miserable all the time?

Who wants to live like that?

That's why it's more important than ever to find contentment.

Contentment is appreciating what you have, regardless if things in your life are fabulous or challenging.

Contentment is embracing whatever life offers you, learning from it, and moving forward.

Contentment also means accepting ourselves just as we are.

And contentment is SO HARD to find during a job search.

You might be experiencing the unexpected loss of a job and the eroded sense of self that accompanies it. Applications are submitted into the "void," often without a response, leaving you hanging. The constant rejection—in my case, it was daily for almost a year—wears on you.

With all this going on, it's challenging to find any contentment.

But we need to. Living sad isn't good for us.

Here are some things you can do:

Stop comparing With the well deserved reputation of being the thief of contentment, comparison is never good, but it adds even more stress during a job search. Every situation is unique. Be genuinely happy for your friend who gets an interview, survives a layoff, or lands a job. Their success has zero to do with your success.

Avoid focusing on things out of your control I've heard of people who stalk LinkedIn to see who got hired for a job they were rejected from. Waah? Don't waste your precious energy wondering what made someone else a better match. Focus on things you can control— what you learned, which questions you need a better answer to, or how you can rephrase a story to improve engagement.

Limit commiserating I know it's tempting to find satisfaction in shared pain. Vent for a bit, if you must, then move on to more positive and affirming conversations. Tell a former colleague what you liked about working with them or compliment a networking friend on a job search tip they've shared. Foster supportive and positive interactions that encourage and uplift others.

Appreciate everyday joys We all get jaded, especially when we're down. Notice that beautiful sunset or the ice glistening on a tree branch. Savor the smell of your morning coffee. Feel the warmth of a pet on your lap. Embrace the present moment and find contentment in everyday activities.

Remember you're awesome Losing a job doesn't negate your talents, skills, and experiences. Remind yourself that you're a wonderful person. Make an intention to be the best you you can be right now. Truly, authentically, unapologetically you. Be content with all you are and all you have, because no one else can offer the world what you have to offer.