Hunting for a new job can be a long and arduous task. It can take weeks or even months and is sometimes a very lonely journey. At the beginning you are excited, optimistic and motivated, but after weeks of rejection it can be hard to stay motivated. A positive mental attitude is almost as important as a well written resume and cover letter. If you come across as despondent or defeatist, it is the quickest way to get kicked out of the competition. Keeping your demeanor positive will also keep your chances up and here’s 3 easy ways to help. 
1. Exercise
This simple lifestyle ingredient is often overlooked. A healthy diet and exercise routine are important in everyone’s day to day life but especially effective during job search. Cardio releases endorphins which are great for keeping you happy and motivated. Also a daily exercise schedule means you know when you can take a break from your research. It is healthy to take breaks. A healthy lifestyle reduces illness, stress and will keep you motivated during your job search.
2. Schedule breaks
Job search should be treated like a full time job. You need to get up early in the morning, get dressed and get to business. However it is just as important to take planned breaks to eat, exercise (see above) and rejuvenate your job search. Plan something you love to do at the end of the day as a reward when you meet your targets. A happy job seeker is a successful job seeker. If you overwhelm yourself with worry about job search, resumes and applications you will stress yourself out.
3. Volunteer
Volunteering looks great on a resume and is a fulfilling way to give back to society at a time when you have more time on your hands. It demonstrates to future employers that you were proactive with your time in unemployment, plus you might meet some interesting people, acquire new skills and discover new passions in life. It is also a valuable networking opportunity if you lend your time to the right industry. And if nothing else, you’ve helped someone/something in need.
A positive attitude is incredibly valuable during job search to keep you motivated. There is no need to punish yourself into depression glued to your laptop. Use this time to make long needed changes in your life… perhaps it’s even time for a new direction? Happy job hunting!