By Tori Goodrich

For most people, their job is an integral part of their identity. Think about the last time you met someone new. What was the first thing the person asked you: what do you do?  – how do you answer that question? More importantly, how do you define yourself?

Redefining yourself during this transition is very important.  It’s imperative to keep your motivation as well as self-confidence in check. Know that this transition can actually lead you to the job you have always truly wanted as well as offering you some much needed reflection time.

• Create a Routine. Set your alarm, get up at the same time every morning, take a shower and get dressed. Set tasks and try not to get stuck in internet job searching all day. Set aside a specific time in front of the computer. Turn your phone on mute and use it as a timer to keep you focused and on task.
• Set Daily or Weekly Goals. What do you want to get accomplished each day? Write it down. Have a set of weekly goals for your job search. Hold yourself accountable to achieving those goals.
• Get Out of the House. Being in the same place all day, every day can be suffocating. A change can help provide a fresh perspective. Free up your mind and allow new, positive ideas to come to you.
• Seek Social Support. Join professional organizations within the industry you worked in or want to work in. A huge benefit to joining any group is the networking opportunities you can have. Many jobs are found through networking. I know it’s not easy to get out there but the benefits will outweigh being a little uncomfortable.
• Family Time. As painful as it is to not be working, it is an excellent time to re-claim family time or personal time. I promise, once you land that great job, you will wish you took a little more time to smell the roses.

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Tori Goodrich is a life, business and professional; What Should I Do Now coach. She is also the co-owner of Gener8tional Connections helping companies work through the great divide. Visit her on the web at www.victoriagoodrich.com, or reach her via email at tgoodrich@vista.today.