It would seem that healthcare professionals should be the happiest, healthiest people on the planet. They’ve gone through years of study, testing and certification to become certified or licensed in their field. All those years of education, practicums, research, and application of healthy principles make them experts. Right?
That’s like saying the plumber never has a leaky faucet, or a construction engineer has the perfect house. Healthcare professionals are people with real lives and struggles. Knowledge doesn’t automatically equal perfection. What’s supposed to happen when you follow the rules doesn’t always happen. For example, there are thousands of diet “experts” with books that promise amazing results with just a few easy steps, yet obesity is a growing problem. Likewise, even if you follow every rule or suggestion on how to find a job, it’s going to take time and there may be a few roadblocks along the way.
All this can lead to frustration and discouragement. It’s important to stay positive during a job search. It’s possible to be happy during your search even when your inbox isn’t full of job offers. Sometimes happiness is not a matter of doing something. Instead, consider stopping some habits that can rob you of happiness. A recent Inc. Magazine article, "Be Happier: 10 Things To Stop Doing Right Now," has some tips for making you happier. Some minor adjustments for some of these tips can make your job search happier, too.
- Blaming. The article suggests you stop blaming others for your misery and look inward. Sure, your last boss may have been a jerk. What about your job performance? If you want to be successful in your next job, honestly examine your past performance and either get the training or counseling you need to improve your skills and attitude. Then, stop blaming, period. Flip the page and start a new chapter.
- Impressing. Wait a minute. Isn’t getting a job all about impressing a prospective employer with your resume and interview skills? Yes and No. If an employer is impressed with the real you, it’s great. But trying to be something you’re not just to get a job won’t bring happiness. You may get a job and then live in fear that someone will find out you’re an imposter. You’re going to take the real “you” to your next job anyway. You can only fake it for so long. Happiness comes from accepting yourself and valuing your unique talents and personality.
- Clinging. So you had a great job, an impressive title and a big salary. You had embossed business cards, an expense account and a yearly bonus. Or, you were the lead technician or top salesperson or whatever. You’ll never move forward until you let go of the past. In order to get to the other end of the money bars, you have to let go with one hand and reach out for the next rung. If you just hang on, you’ll never get anywhere. Letting go of the past is the only way you’ll be able to experience happiness in the future.
- Whining. You can’t be happy if you are constantly rehashing the past. Instead of telling anyone within earshot how miserable you are and how everyone “done you wrong,” focus on your accomplishments and what you have to offer. Complaining about a past boss or job is a red flag to a future employer. If you’re a whiner, it could come out in a job interview or cover letter. What’s worse, it could come out during a reference check by a former boss or colleague.
- Fearing. No one can predict the future. If we could, we’d all pick the right lottery numbers, make the best investments and pick the perfect job. Losing a job, followed by a lengthy job hunt, can strike fear in the most positive person. Fear can also become a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you’re constantly afraid of failure, you won’t try or take a risk. Fear drives out happiness. It may sound corny, but the sun will come up tomorrow. Face the future with positive expectations.
The fact that you’re still in the game is a reason to be happy. Letting go of some negative habits can make room for joy, improve your attitude and make each day a little happier.
Photo Source: Freedigitalphotos.net
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