Yesterday I observed a panel discussion made up of job seekers who landed jobs. There was an overriding theme- the challenge of maintaining self-confidence.
It is so difficult when faced with all the rejection faced to feel confident. There are some things that can be done to offset these feelings. Simple, basic rules we learned as children.
- Take care of yourself: eat right, exercise and get enough sleep
- Indulge in something that brings you joy, regularly
- Volunteer- find something you enjoy doing and give back
- Surround yourself with supportive people
- Ask for help when you need it
Volunteering is easy, doesn't cost anything and gets you out of the house. Be careful not to let it take up all your time. Sometimes if we can focus on something or someone other than ourselves, the problems at hand, don't seem quite as severe.
You don't have to run a marathon but get off your butt! People who jog regularly often talk about a "runner's high," which is a release of endorphins that happens when they hit a certain point in their workout. The science of endorphins-from-exercise is controversial, and some medical professionals believe the positive feeling you get when you meet a physical challenge, rather than the exertion itself, is what stimulates the endorphin release. But whatever the cause, exercise has been proven to enhance mood. I recommend any prolonged activities such as running, cycling, cross-country skiing, swimming, tennis or a long cardio workout for the best effects.
Posted by: Peter Crerand | October 24, 2008 at 02:48 PM