Things To Do For Yourself

Be organized

As part of your job search keep all your documentation together. Use this workbook in a three-ring binder which you may choose to tab. For example, you could have a section called "Portfolio" for skills inventories, accomplishments, and job-related needs and wants. Another section labelled. "Employers" could include names, phone numbers, dates contacted, outcomes and follow-up for all run/jog potential employers you contact. Another section might be "Ideas for Job Leads." Use the Contact Sheet to record your job leads and contacts.

Whatever system you prefer, set it up so you will have a means for recording your actions and seeing your progress. You will impress your employer contacts with your organization skills. And, most important, you'll have all the information you need at your finger tips to help you succeed in your job search.

Be Creative

Developing ideas is crucial to successful job search. You need to be creative to get the edge and to stand out from the crowd.

All of the lists you started in this manual are creative exercises. You might further stimulate your creativity by doing specific exercises. For example, think of an object -- a brick, a pen, a phone. What are all of the things you could do with this object? The object is to expand your thinking -- to generate an unlimited number of original ideas, no matter how ridiculous. Get into the habit of allowing yourself to be ridiculous. Some of the best solutions to problems have come out of "ridiculous" ideas.


Reward Yourself

Job search is hard work. It takes a lot of time and energy. Be sure to make time each day to reward yourself for your efforts and restore your energy. The "Reward List" on the following page will help you identify activities you enjoy doing. Include things you have been attracted to but may not have made time for.

Some of the following may appeal to you:

  • take a long, perfumed bubble bath in candlelight with music
  • run/jog
  • work out
  • walk the dog
  • go for a bike ride
  • read a book, cover to cover
  • watch a favorite movie
  • do a crossword puzzle
  • arrange with a special friend to share a massage
  • listen to your favorite music
  • walk in a park
  • visit a museum
  • attend a free concert
  • draw
  • lift weights
  • build models
  • skate
  • read cartoon books or comics
  • dance
  • do some gardening

Select at least one reward for yourself each day from your reward list.

Make a list of the people in your life whom you enjoy being around -- people who give you a lift and help you feel positive. Include them in your "rewarding" activities.

Pat yourself on the back and give yourself the energy boost you need to set yourself up for the next day of your job search.

Favorite Activities - Alone Favorite Activities - With Others Favorite Places to Be Favorite Smells Favorite Foods Favorite Exercises Favorite Subjects to Learn
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             

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