08 Nov 2023
Looking for work can bring some unique challenges when it comes to supporting your mental health and wellbeing: it’s a competitive sector, and that can often come hand-in-hand with a lot of rejection. Looking on the “bright side” and staying positive in this situation can be really challenging, which is why we’re here to help.
1. Develop self-awareness
How are you feeling, generally? How does your body feel today? What is causing you the most stress and anxiety? By regularly checking in with yourself and honestly answering some of these questions, you will significantly develop your self-awareness. Doing this will mean it’s much more likely that you’ll be able to identify what you need to do to support your mental well-being. Try to build in some regular time to take a step back and acknowledge how you are doing.
2. Find balance
The burnout epidemic is real and too many people have found their work habits are self-harming and unsustainable. Knowing when to stop, switch off, and disengage is critical for everyone and especially important when your work can seem limitless: like when searching for a job, a role which often exists outside the boundaries of a normal working schedule. Setting healthy, sustainable practices will help to maintain your well-being and ensure you’re able to be fully present for any activities you are doing.
3. Welcome imperfection
Making mistakes is a part of healthy living: it’s a natural way for us to get better at stuff and learn what works and what doesn’t work. Most of us have been through education systems that reward ‘success’ and discourage ‘failure’; it’s no surprise, then, that most of us are averse to taking risks and doing our best to avoid mistakes. Try to welcome failure for the opportunities it suggests. Failure is necessary and important: start focusing less on “what’s wrong” and begin to recognize “what’s right?”
4. Connect with others
Spending time with people that we love, like, and enjoy being with is uplifting and rejuvenating. Being able to accept their support and talk about things that we find challenging really does make the load seem lighter. Take action by spending more time with people who matter, and don’t be afraid to ask for their help when you need it; whether it’s to talk through an upcoming interview, or to seek networking connections to further your employment goals.
5. Practice self-care and mindfulness
There is scientific evidence to suggest that there are significant health benefits to the daily practice of mindfulness. And if it seems intimidating to start, remember that many of us are practicing mindfulness without meaning to any activity that requires us to be fully present with an awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environments through a gentle and nurturing lens. Try to build self-care into your schedule as a specific activity, rather than “when I get the chance”, to see the full benefits.
Written by Sky Tunley-Stainton - Partnerships & Training Manager - Safe in Our World
Keep Calm and waka waka...
