Being in transition can sometimes lead to unhealthy habits that can affect your over-all well-being. What you watch, listen to, and read, can have the same effect on your mind as eating junk food can have on your physical health. It’s just like your mom told you… “you are what you eat!”
So, What Are You Feeding On?
Having a positive mental attitude is essential when you’re looking for work. But, if you’re watching hours upon hours of pandemic news coverage or reading post after post about people being defiant/dangerous, what mental images will you be left with? I can’t watch movies, shows or specials that have either dark or disturbing tones any more. They lead me down a path of negative feelings that, because I’m in transition, I’m super sensitive to.
Be Aware. Be VERY Aware!
You have to catch yourself. Question yourself. Ask yourself “is what I’m consuming helping how I’m feeling?” And STOP! Turn off the TV, scroll by the social media post and START looking to be inspired. Find the positive posts. Write your own! Read things that make you smile. Share your opinions on other people’s articles. Get into the habit of commenting!
To Comment or Not to Comment?
If you plan on becoming part of the latest bitch-fest then don’t comment. Employers are watching your social media. Being in transition means you need to build and protect your on-line brand. How? Like positive articles about your field of expertise. Share articles you find interesting and inspirational. Get comfortable with commenting on other people’s feeds. I used to worry about how my words would be scrutinized by the authors. It’s that same fear of accidentally hitting “reply all” to a work email. So, I started off by writing my responses on a Word document first. I even had friends and colleagues read it over before I’d post. The more you do it though, the more comfortable you’ll feel doing it. So, do it!
Be Active, Be Found!
And, by liking, commenting and sharing, your profile will move up in the search algorithm of most social media sites. That’s what gets you noticed. Not just by employers but by the on-line community. If you stay positive, others will seek you out, be inspired, want to connect and the next thing you know, your network will be filled with contacts that not only perpetuate the positive message your brand now represents, it’ll be full of people who are willing to help. I find that kind of communication much more satisfying… and healthier to snack on!
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