Looking for a job can be tough on your emotions and mental state, especially when it takes longer than you thought it would. You might send out loads of applications, tweak your resume, and write tons of cover letters, only to end up facing silence or rejection. It’s pretty easy to feel discouraged, but how to stay motivated during a long job search is what keeps you going.
But keeping your spirits up is important. A good attitude not only helps your mental health but can also give you a better shot at landing a job. Here are some tips to stay motivated and inspired while you look for work.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Feeling overwhelmed can easily happen if you set vague goals like “I’ll apply to as many jobs as I can.” Instead, break things down into smaller, doable tasks like:
- Apply to 3–5 jobs each day
- Spend an hour a day networking
- Update your LinkedIn profile by Friday
- Attend one virtual career webinar this week
When you track and complete these smaller tasks, it helps you feel like you’re making progress, which is good for staying motivated.
Tip: Use free tools like Trello or Todoist to keep your job search organised and set deadlines for yourself.
2. Create a Routine
Treat your job hunt like a full-time job. Get up at the same time every day, get dressed, and set aside specific hours for job searching, networking, and learning new skills.
A routine can bring some normalcy back to your life, which can help when you’re unemployed.
Sample Job Search Schedule:
- 9–10 AM: Review job alerts and apply
- 10–11 AM: Customise resumes/cover letters
- 11–12 PM: Network on LinkedIn or send cold emails
- 1–2 PM: Work on skills (like online courses)
3. Celebrate Small Victories
You might not land a job right away, but every bit of progress counts. Celebrate the small wins:
- Got a reply from a recruiter? That’s a win.
- Updated your resume? Win!
- Scheduled an informational interview? Another win!
Writing these milestones down can remind you that your efforts are paying off, even if it’s a slow process.
4. Stay Connected
Job hunting can feel lonely. Reach out to family, friends, former coworkers, or mentors for support. You might also want to join online groups for job seekers like:
- LinkedIn Groups
- Reddit’s r/jobs
- Fairygodboss (for women)
- Fishbowl (for real-time job discussions)
Talking to people who get what you’re going through can really help emotionally and also give you practical tips.
5. Focus on Personal Growth
Use your free time to build your skills. Learning something new can boost your confidence and make you more appealing to employers.
Check out free or affordable platforms like:
Whether it’s digital marketing, Excel, coding, or project management, adding new skills to your resume can show you’re proactive.
6. Take Breaks for Your Mental Health
It’s okay to step back sometimes. Constant rejection can hurt your self-esteem, so make sure to give yourself some time to rest. You might try:
- Walking or exercising
- Journaling
- Practising meditation
- Watching your favourite show without feeling guilty
Apps like Headspace and Calm can also help you relax and focus.
7. Practice Gratitude
Job hunting can make you dwell on what you don’t have—like money or opportunities. Practising gratitude can help you shift your focus to what you do have.
Every morning or evening, write down three things you’re grateful for. It could be something simple, like:
- I have internet access to apply for jobs.
- My friend helped with my resume.
- I stayed consistent this week.
This small act can help lift your mood and make it easier to face your job search with a positive outlook.
8. Change Your Environment
If you’re always applying for jobs in the same spot at home, consider switching it up. Changing your workspace can spark creativity and improve focus.
Some ideas to refresh your space:
- Rearrange your desk
- Add a plant or piece of art
- Work from a library or coffee shop once a week (if you can)
- Use noise-cancelling headphones to help you concentrate
Creating a space that motivates you can give you a boost throughout the day.
9. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
It’s easy to feel down when you see others getting hired or promoted on LinkedIn. Remember that people usually only share their successes, not their struggles.
Your path is your own. Some land jobs in two weeks; others may take six months or more. Focus on your journey and the steps you’re taking.
10. Ask for Feedback
If you’re applying consistently but not getting responses, seek feedback from:
- Recruiters you’ve talked to
- Friends in your field
- Career coaches (some offer free online sessions)
You might need to tweak your resume or improve your interview skills. Small changes can make a difference.
Finally, review your job search strategy every once in a while:
- Are you targeting the right roles?
- Are your emails and resumes personalised?
- Is your LinkedIn profile up to date?
Note: A long job search can be tough, but staying motivated will help you find the right opportunity. Remember your skills, your progress, and how strong you are. You’re not starting from scratch you’re building on your experience. Also if you pick up some of the routines on how to stay motivated during a long job search then you are good to go.
The right job is out there, and each day you keep going brings you closer to finding it.
