If you're like me, you approached this job search like you’d done in the past, with determination and optimism. Now, as your search drags on, it's challenging to pull yourself out of the gloom to see the positives.

But there are positives if we look for them. And we must.

Long term sadness can lead to a slew of negative outcomes, lowering your immune system, raising your blood pressure, interrupting your sleep, and wrecking your physical health. And that's on top of being unemployed!

Here are some things I do to stay positive when things are tough:

𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 There's great satisfaction in picking up a new skill. Whether it's job related, like learning how to create AI prompts or write SQL queries, or not, like mastering a kitchen technique or growing tomatoes from seed. Enjoy the learning journey; each step in the process is an opportunity to notice your growth and be proud. To celebrate your new knowledge!

𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 A surprising joy has been writing these posts, sharing my outlook and perspective. I've heard from many of you that my messages resonate. The outpouring of positive comments has been gratifying, but realizing that my words touch people and help them makes it amazing.

Posting may not be your thing, but luckily, there are lots of other ways to share. Know a great tool to optimize your resume for a job description? Share! A supportive networking group? Share! A connection at a friend's dream company? Share! A job that's perfect for someone you know? Share! You'll feel appreciated and valued, with the added plus of doing something positive.

𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 If you're part of a networking group (which I highly recommend), meet with someone 1 on 1. Limit commiserating and focus on finding common interests, building a relationship, and exploring how you can help each other.

No networking group? No problem. Find someone on LinkedIn who looks interesting, for example, someone in the same role as you with significantly more (or less) experience, or just someone else who's , and connect. Despite what LI says, I've found most people will accept a stranger's connection request without a note. Then start a conversation.

I've met many people this way. They've helped me and I've helped them, leading to fabulous learning, sharing, and even friendships. Giving me something positive to look forward to and making me and (I hope) the other person feel great.

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘄𝗶𝗻 Beautiful weather? Take your computer outside and savor the sunshine while you search.

Complete a project around your house? Appreciate yourself!

Find fabulous job matches on ZenSearch? Smile as you apply.

I know it's hard, but together, we can make job searching a little more zen.