Looking for a job in a down economy is a full-time job. Spending hours searching the internet, sending out resumes and chasing down any and each promising job lead is exhausting, frustrating and oftentimes depressing. The longer you are out of work, the greater the toll these negative feelings can take on your ego and self-esteem. These feelings can carry over to the day when you will land a face-to-face interview with a prospective firm. One of the most effective ways to combat the feeling of helplessness and the unemployment blues is to make exercise the cornerstone of your daily job search strategy.
The Benefits of Exercise
Exercise seems to be the panacea for most of what ails the human race – and for good reason. Exercise builds strength, stamina and endurance while releasing those feel-good endorphins that improve one's overall emotional outlook. Additionally, exercise alleviates stress and tension, which can be overwhelming while looking for that next, new job.
Rebuild Confidence while Rebuilding Your Body
As the unemployment rate continues to rise, even the most ambitious and productive workers may find themselves out of a job for the first time in years. While it is comforting to know that you are not alone, that does not necessarily help stave off the damage that being unemployed can do to your psyche. When your confidence has been shaken in your ability to provide for yourself or your family, it becomes increasingly difficult to recapture your usual office bravado.
According to Sal Palmiere, certified triathlon coach and owner of MultiSportFitness in Jacksonville, FL, “It’s difficult to hold onto your confidence and self-esteem when you've been looking for a job for a long time. You start to wonder if you can still compete and win in this really tough, competitive environment." (Palmieri, Sal. Personal INTERVIEW. 20 April 2009) Palmieri recommends making some short-term, realistic fitness goals and achieving them, which can temporarily replace work success with personal success which will keep you going until you land that next position.
Join a Group
Most communities have exercise clubs that will not only get your heart pumping, but will get you out among new people. Verbal skills, like all other skills you have mastered, must be practiced or they begin to deteriorate. By engaging in conversations with new people, you get the opportunity to practice speaking to wide variety of people on diverse topics. Additionally, the new people you meet may be key to helping you find your next job.
Fitness is Cheap
Money is tight and your budget will not bend when you are unemployed, but that does not take exercise off the playing field. While you can spend money on a gym membership, exercise only needs to be as expensive as a pair of good running or walking shoes. Taking a walk or run is free, and you can definitely afford "free" right now.
There is no downside to lacing up your shoes and getting into a good exercise program. The simple act of getting out, enjoying the fresh air, changing your scenery, meeting new people, and enjoying all the positive benefits of exercise could be all that you need to move you closer to a new job or career.
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