I want to start off this blog by stating my intent is to inspire others. If, by reading my words, you feel compelled to make a change or try something you’ve been putting off for a while then I’ve done what I’ve intended. But it’s with empathy and support that I want my message to be received. So, I apologize up-front if what I write stirs any negative emotions or feelings. Just understand you are thought of fondly and in the most positive light.
Who’s on this Ride?
You’ve already been told that the job search will be a roller coaster of emotions. The “ups” of landing an interview, the downs of being “ghosted” by recruiters and hiring managers. Those are the individual hills and valleys that we all experience, but they are restricted to singular moments and can be short-lived. When compounding events occur, that’s when the roller coaster can fill up with passengers and feel like an accelerating downward spiral. Here’s how I take back the momentum.
Did You Feel That?
When you’re “in transition,” you need to be aware of what you’re feeling, from the moment you wake up to right before you shut things down and close your eyes. Mindset IS a critical survival skill. Being able to acknowledge when you’re starting to feel your next emotional “dip” will allow you to control the “depth” of that swell. That is, until you interact with someone who’s feeling what you’re feeling, but WAY stronger.
Down the Hill You Go!
I know how much effort is needed to control the speed of my emotional roller coaster ride. But, when I’m already feeling somewhat questionable and someone else jumps into my cart, gravity takes over. It’s the gravity of “I’m not the only one feeling this way” and the gravity of “yeah, I really can relate to this” as well as the gravity caused by others also expressing similar feelings that accelerates me downward. It’s like a perfect storm scenario. And it’s not anyone else’s fault. Nobody was aware that I was struggling. It’s scary.
It’s a Safer Ride with Your Hands Up!
Now, this is one roller coaster ride where it’s much safer to get your hands up and feet loose. And what I mean by that is “hands up” to “identify” you’re on the descending side of the hill and “feet loose” meaning “get moving” to make a call and reach out to someone you know can help you slow down the effects of emotional gravity pulling at you. I made several calls and messaged a few more before I could level out.
Knowledge is Forgiveness
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned while being in transition is that I’m not alone. The things that I feel and experience are common AND shared. Is my situation unique? Yes. So is yours. But the way we process the stress is what makes us all human. Learning how to identify the feelings I have, accept and forgive myself for feeling them, and THEN look for ways to slow the roller coaster have really helped flatten my ride. Helping others also helps me too, so get out there and find others who could use a little “anti-gravity” training. It’ll make your roller coaster ride a little less scary.
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