Finding energy

An important and often under noticed effect of Job hunting is the incredible amount of both emotional and physical energy it takes. I have found that in the last 2 months my energy has fluctuated an incredible amount from stupendous highs to valley's so low that even the dead sea (The lowest point on the earth) is not low enough.

In conversation with friends we have come up with four necessary practices to maintain a healthy energy level needed to continue your search with a clear mind.

1. Exercise your body. This doesn't mean you need to go out and run a few miles. I simply take a walk for about an hour every day or take some time to do yoga at home. When you are looking for a job funds are almost always tight so the emphasis is on activities that you can easily access at any time of day. If it's raining, grab a rain coat or umbrella and start splashing in the puddles. Or have a dance party in your living room to your favorite tunes.

2. Be Creative. I choose knitting and playing guitar. Some of my friends really enjoy beading, painting, singing, and cooking. The feelings of accomplishment, which wane the longer the job search goes, are necessary for exuding a positive and powerful self at interviews and on cover letters. The outputs coupled with creative activity is incredibly fulfilling, making a sense of accomplishment available every day. This creative activity can be anything from getting a block of clay and continually reshaping it or cooking up your Aunt's recipe for Vegetable soup.

3. Find peace. I chose spiritual practices of writing poetry, songs and singing. I also love meditating, or simply resting in silence(good to combine with my knitting). I like the smile meditation which is to envision your whole body smiling, even your liver. (Mentioned in "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert) You could also find a good book of poetry, or simply a great story, like that of inspirational leaders. (check out your local library, it's free.) My friend is reading about Shamanism, and another about Buddhist practices of prayer. I like the prayers of Thich Nhat Hahn.

4. Friends. Rest in the comfort of friends or family. You don't need to spend money to hang out with your friends. I like watching our favorite T.V. show together, or meandering through the farmers market. Sometimes just a lazy afternoon at the park reading our favorite books, is a great restful day.