When you’re feeling burnt out, it’s tough to think straight.
You might feel like you can’t do anything right and giving up seems like the only option. But it’s important to remember that this is just a phase. You will get through it.
Read on for tips on how to job hunt when you’re feeling at your worst.
Define your goals
Take some time to define your goals. What do you want from your next job? What are your priorities? Are you looking for something that’s going to challenge you or are you looking for a job that’s going to be more relaxing? Once you have a better idea of what you’re looking for, it will be easier to start targeting.
Simplify your search
When you’re feeling burnt out, the last thing you want to do is spend hours scanning through job listings and writing cover letters. So how can you simplify your job search?
One way is to focus on jobs that are a good fit for your skills and interests. Don’t waste your time applying for jobs that are a poor match—you’re only going to get frustrated and feel burnt out even more.
Another way to simplify your search is to target companies that you want to work for. Do some research online and see if they have any openings. If they don’t, send them an email anyway and introduce yourself. You never know, they might be in the market for new talents.
Consider a different path
The industry you’ve been working in for the past few years has lost its luster, and you’re not sure what to do next. Well, maybe it’s time to consider a different path.
There are plenty of other jobs out there that may be a better fit for you. Maybe you want to try something new and explore your creative side. Or maybe you want to go back to school and get your certification in a field that you’re passionate about.
Whatever it is, we urge you to go after what you want. And don’t hesitate to take some time to figure out what that is. The job market is competitive, but don’t let that discourage you. You have the power to create the life you want—and the job you want—if you’re willing to put in the work.
Don’t be afraid to take a break
It can be challenging to keep going when you’re feeling burnt out. You don’t want to spend the little energy you have on job hunting, but you also don’t want to stay stuck in your current status.
So what can you do? Take a short break. It’s not the advice most people want to hear, but it’s crucial to give yourself some time to recharge. Maybe take a few days off, or even a week if you can manage it. During that time, focus on getting your mental and physical energy back.
And when you’re ready, start job hunting again. This time, be more selective about the jobs you apply for and the companies you interview with. Make sure the position and the company are a good fit for you—you don’t want to end up in the same situation as before.
The best thing you can do when you’re feeling burnt out is to take some time for yourself. Get some support from your friends and family, and take care of yourself in whatever way you need to. Maybe that means taking a break from job hunting and focusing on something else for a while. Or maybe it means taking the full weekend off to recharge your batteries. Whatever it looks like for you, make sure to give yourself the time and space you need to heal. You will be in a much better position to start job hunting again when you’re feeling more rested and relaxed.