Job search burnout is real.

The process is full of rejection, frustration, self-doubt, and anxiety.

Here are six ways to keep your mental health in check during your search:

Context: I'm not a mental health expert and this isn't medical advice.

I've struggled with my fair share of mental health issues though.

I've also coached thousands of job seekers through their own.

These tips are the ones I've seen help the most in both of those cases.

1. Set Expectations Early

When a process frustrates us, expectations are usually the culprit.

Setting them correctly changes your mindset.

Here's how:

1. Understand the benchmark outcomes
2. Cut those in half

Ex: If the data says 2% of online apps land interviews, expect 1%.

2. Identify & Reallocate Your Energy

Your job search activities fit into two buckets:

1. Energy Drainers
2. Energy Creators

Make a list of every activity.

Label each as a creator or drainer.

Try to automate, delegate, or eliminate drainers.

Then double down on creators.

3. Find Support

Tough journeys are even harder when we go it alone.

Finding a community of people on the same path is a game changer.

It could be:

– A few friends
– A professional community
– A bootcamp class
– A career coach

Whatever it is for you, make it a priority.

4. Carve Out “Me” Time

It's not healthy to spend every moment of free time job searching.

You need to find time for the things that fill your cup:

– Exercise
– Read
– Meet Friends
– Make Art
– Watch TV
– Etc.

Make a point to spend at least 30 minutes / day on those things.

5. Fully Unplug

Sometimes 30 minutes isn't enough.

You need to completely unplug.

But that feels scary.

We tell ourselves, “we're not working hard enough” or “we're wasting time.”

If you feel burnout creeping in?

Take a day off.

Need two? Take em.

I give you permission.

6. Get Professional Help

If therapy is in your budget, I wholeheartedly recommend it.

For anyone.

I've spent a lot of money on coaches, courses, and programs.

But the money I've spent working with my therapist is easily the best investment I've made in myself and my business.