Maintaining a Positive Outlook
During Your Job Search
Tips from the Science of Positive Psychology
Happiness Booster #1
Exercise
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When you Exercise…
People who exercise are often happier and more confident
Exercise can help you
Feel better physically
Have an opportunity to socialize
Enjoy nature
Learn new skills and accomplish objectives
Distract you from what's bothering you
Exercise is good for your job search. It can help
you come across as more energetic.
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Happiness Booster #2
Gratitude
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Gratitude
Expressing gratitude can help you feel more hopeful and less anxious.
It can also give you more energy and help you sleep better.
Try making a list of what you are grateful for every night. You'll likely find this list
gets longer over time.
Who has helped you with your job search? How can
you express your gratitude? What else are you
grateful for related to your job search?
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Happiness Booster #3
Forgiveness
v.tr. 1. To excuse for a fault or an offense; pardon.
2. To renounce anger or resentment against.
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Forgiveness
Job transitions can be challenging and job seekers may have some negative
feelings.
Anger, bitterness and resentment can hurt us emotionally and physically.
Forgiveness can reduce anxiety and increase self-esteem.
Do you need to forgive anyone connected with your
job loss or search?
Remember, forgiveness is about you, not the other
person.
Some people find it helpful to write a letter of forgiveness without
sending it.
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Happiness Booster #4
Acts of Kindness
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Acts of Kindness
When we treat someone with kindness we see them more positively.
We also feel better about ourselves.
How can you help a fellow job seeker?
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Happiness Booster #5
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Smile
Just smiling can increase your well being.
A fake smile can help; a real smile is even better.
Remember to smile when networking and on job
interviews.
Smiling while talking on the phone can add warmth
to your voice.
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Sources and To Learn More…
Creating Your Best Life by Caroline Adams Miller and Michael B. Frisch,
Sterling Publishing, 2009
Authentic Happiness, Using the New Positive Psychology to Realize Your
Potential for Lasting Fulfillment by Martin E.P. Seligman, Free Press, 2002
The How of Happiness, A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want
by Sonja Lyubomirsky, The Penguin Press, 2007
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