Job hunting is tough and sometimes it can really get you down. Often the bad feelings come from losing your perspective and seeing things in a negative way. Here are some specific suggestions for regaining your perspective and ways to alter the way you are looking at the situation so you can see things a bit more positively.

1. Get Perspective - Keep in mind that a job is just a job. What is important is your health, family, spirituality, friendships and recreation. A job search is an activity you are engaging in and not who you are.

2. Quit job searching and start searching for where you can add value – Use this attitude when you network. You will be surprised by the information you receive and the opportunities that exist.

3. Let the past go – If you have not found a job yet, learn from it and move on. Think about how to better prepare for the next interview or broaden your search methods.

4. Stay true to yourself – Think about what your interests are, and listen for internal cues – your gut instincts. They will tell if you are on the right track.

5. Be open to risk - Give up trying to predict where the next lead will come from or who will be the most helpful.

6. Take one day at a time while planning your search. Break big tasks into small bite size pieces.

7. Create a new way of looking at a job search. It is not a one time event, it is a life long process.

8. Reinvent your career by adding any missing ingredients. Start by planning how to acquire the skills you need to move forward.

9. Exercise – You don’t have to go to a gym or sign up for a class. Just take a walk for 20 minutes or rake leaves or ride your bike. Exercise increases endorphins and makes us feel better about ourselves.

10. Meditate or pray for at least 10 minutes a day. Clearing your mind of all the scary thoughts gives you a mental break and helps your brain function better. Just try to focus on your breathing and nothing else. Many people find praying and handing the situation over to a higher power helps them feel less burdened.

Still feeling stressed about having to look for a job during a recession? See our post on Recession Job Search Tips and feel better.