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Job searching can be tedious, frustrating, and even disheartening from time to time. Persisting through all of this can be difficult, and sometimes you just need to hear a friendly voice reassure you to “trust the process.” Here are a few more words of wisdom to remember to inspire you and keep you motivated.
1. “Growth can be painful, change can be painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.” -Charles H. Spurgeon
Many job searches, though not all, are sparked by a lack of fit in our current jobs or institutions. Staying somewhere that is making you unhappy or in an institution or department that doesn’t value you isn’t in your best interest long-term. That’s not to say moving on will be easy. The search process may take longer than you hoped, interviewing and networking might be difficult, or other challenges might exist, but keep your end goal in mind. The road may be challenging and entail some discomfort, but the final destination is worth it.
2. “You cannot swim for new horizons until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” -William Faulkner
Comfort has its benefits, but growth and progress in our careers require us to get out of our comfort zones. Interviewing and networking certainly can be uncomfortable for some of us, but it’s the only way we’ll reach greater heights in our careers. Sometimes, we have to take a leap of faith.
3. “If you are insecure, guess what? The rest of the world is, too. Do not overestimate the competition and underestimate yourself. You are better than you think.” -Tim Ferriss
Oftentimes, we are our own worst critics. We look at ourselves under a microscope and are harder on ourselves than we deserve. Don’t fall into this self-limiting trap. Surround yourself with people who build you up during your job search, and remember what you have to offer. Your competitors have their own insecurities as well. You’re not alone.
4. “Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.” -Dalai Lama
A rejection letter — or worse yet, finding out a job was filled without being notified — can sting. However, we have to trust the process and that the right opportunity is out there for us. Something more exciting and better-paying or -fitting may be ahead for you. One day soon, you’ll be celebrating, not mourning this lost opportunity.
5. “No one is you, and that is your superpower.” -Elyse Santilli
We each have unique skills, work habits, and experiences to bring to an institution. Too often, we get caught up comparing ourselves to others or worrying about the little details of our experience that may be missing. Think about the whole package you can offer as a candidate. Be authentic and practice how you’ll introduce yourself and what stories you’ll tell in your interview. No one else has your exact skillset, experience, and perspective, so stop comparing, focus on your own story, and remember your worth.
Half the challenge in a job search is staying positive and motivated. Remembering these life lessons in your moments of fear and frustration can help you build resilience as you work toward your goal. What quotes inspire you most in your job search? Let us know on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram at @HigherEdJobs.
