Finding meaning in finding a job

This past week has brought about many different conversations about the difficulties and struggles people go through while job searching. Thankfully, I am doing my job search along with other wonderful past colleagues and friends. We are able to reflect about our days of emails, job sites, revising cover letters, filling out lengthy online applications, and what we do with the other 20 hours in our day. I've been hearing myself say "There is NOT a handbook on this," but I think there are nuggets of wisdom I have learned.

1) It's a new beginning--which sounds rather susie sunshine to someone who was second runner-up for a job of her dreams (this happened three times...). Once some financial ducks are in a row (and everyone's may differ here), it's a chance to think about what you want for the next chapter of your life. What are your passions? What inspires you? What truly makes you happy? There may be a new job of my dreams out there.

2) Move forward and remind yourself to move forward when you look back and start to think about what you're missing. I've caught myself in this several times. It's move-in week at my prior institution and I think about my students moving to campus and I'm not there. I think about the events I scheduled and planned and I'm not there. I think about all the work I would be doing and I'm not there. I acknowledge these not-so-good, uncomfortable feelings and move on. I can't change the past, I can't be there and that was not my decision. What I hope is that I left those students with good tools and skills and pray that they are in the hands of other professionals who will become mentors for them, like I was.

3) Just be. After working hard for four years, it's good to read a book on the porch, walk in the beautiful weather, grab a cup of iced coffee, and smile. No longer thinking in lists of what I need to do or should do or didn't do or who I'm not or how I've failed or...well, sometimes it's good to just be.

4) Reconnect with mentors, past friends, and colleagues--put the ball in motion for the opportunity to network and tell others how you did what you did for so many years. I find that when I start talking about my career path, I'm energized. My face lights up and others see the commitment, focus, and dedication I had to my job...perhaps this will lead to another opportunity.

5) When you find yourself to far in the dumps, call for back-up. Call your best friends, your mentor, your grandma, or your colleagues. They are there to support you at your worst moments. Open up, let it all out, and chances are you will feel better.

This has helped me and perhaps it can help others. Best of luck to you all!

Sara