Burned out by your job search? Here’s how to stay focused
Posted April 9, 2014 & filed under Job Search, Resume
Applying for a new job probably isn’t your idea of a good time. The entire job search can be time-consuming, whittling away at your precious hours before and after work.
It’s easy to become distracted by mindless entertainment (TV shows, mobile apps, and websites) when you should be applying for jobs. However, you can take back the reins.
These six methods eliminate distractions and help job seekers to take control when the urge to procrastinate emerges.
Before Applying
- Exercise – A 30 minute jog or workout session can substantially elevate your resolve to apply for a new job. For two or three hours after exercise, your brain power is at its peak. Increased blood flow helps neuroplasticity which allows you to remain focused, control impulses, and sustain productivity.
- Eat nutritiously – Think about it this way: you can’t expect an unleaded engine to properly work with diesel fuel. Foods high in trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars can stall your brain just when you need the spark plug to kick in. Before you sit down to work on job applications, eat some of the following foods:
1.) Fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants and magnesium for focus and energy.
2.) Fish and walnuts high in omega-3 fats for attention-boosting properties.
3.) Eggs yolks and lentils high in iron for heightened energy levels.
- Select the right spot – Where do you focus best? If you can work in a frenetic atmosphere with tons of external stimuli, that’s fine. Just don’t deceive yourself if you can’t. Find peace and quiet, go to a sedated coffee shop, library, or any other place where the noise level will not disturb you.
While Applying
- Don’t multitask – Most of us can’t actually do it. According to studies conducted by Stanford’s Dr. Clifford Nass, multitasking kills creativity and punctures concentration. Shut down any devices (cell phone, television, etc.) that are not directly being used for your job search and avoid any social platforms or apps that can pull you out of the moment.
- Set milestone goals – If your job application looms before you like the full stretch of the Andes Mountains, you’re going to be disinclined to start. But if you have a manageable goal (i.e. searching for new jobs or just retooling your resume), the mental mileage isn’t so bad.
- Take breaks (within reason) – And sometimes, you just need to let your brain do something else. Now, that doesn’t mean you should veg out on Netflix or play a mobile app while you’re on autopilot. The best way to take a break is with a mentally rewarding activity:
1.) Reading a news story, magazine article, or novel.
2.) Solving a crossword or Sudoku.
3.) Planning out the rest of your day
If the job application process still leaves you exhausted, there is another option. Our recruiters can help you cut down on your job search and streamline your resume writing process. Give us a call today and we’ll help you save your free time for you.
by James Walsh
