My job search hit a speed bump this week when I was informed that I’m no longer in the running for a job as a leader in a local software company. The logical side of my brain can handle this, of course, because I know that it takes a lot of contacts, applications and interviews in order to land a job.
But still, it’s disappointing to have invested so much energy and attention to this job, and have it whisked away with a two minute phone call.
This is part of the struggle of hunting for a job. How does one handle the emotional roller-coaster?
1. Recognize what’s happening. There was a dark cloud hanging around that was hard to identify, until I realized that I was going through a little grieving process.
2. Let logic have a voice: The odds are against you, it’s OK to feel bad, it’s not personal, etc. Since I’m an analytical person, this helps me to feel a little bit better.
3. Take a break. Yesterday my wife and I went on a fantastic bike ride, and then wasted the evening watching a movie, eating quesadillas, and drinking margaritas. Not exactly on the diet, of course, but it helped me to re-energize. I did not feel like writing this post yesterday, my heart just wasn’t in it.
4. Get back on the horse. Today I’m doing some more investigation, making contacts, and redoubling my efforts. The energy and optimism is coming back.
How do YOU deal with the inevitable disappointments?