Finding a job is such a struggle in today's landscape. I envy the older generation who just needed a degree and smart casual clothing to land their feet firmly inside their careers. Now the fresh grads have to squeeze past the competition to even get an interview. Alongside that, they battle against the gigantic size label that lands in their pathway - 'unemployment'. Such an ugly word ... but why? Because the word unemployment is filled with judgement at its core. It's even plastered all over the official definition ...
The idea of not being invested in or not holding value is hurtful, and frankly, unjustly simplifying the whole situation. It implies that you haven't tried; that you have failed to make your way through life. But that is - excuse my language - utter bullshit. That definition doesn't capture the internal struggle and complexity of transiting between one part of your life to the next. So with that in mind, I present to you the journey of unemployment in five simple stages ...
1. Hopes and Standards
You've just finished your degree, an internship or job role of some kind. You are at the top of your game. With all the experience you have behind you, you have so got this. To make up for your lack of experience, your passion shines through. It speaks volumes beyond your CV. Now the first step to success is finding a role that will suit your needs and ambitions. But you don't just want any job. Oh no - you want a position that'll help you reach your ultimate goal; a job that is fulfilling. Your best way to achieve that is to eliminate any job that doesn't match that. Swipe left, swipe left ...
2. Self-doubt and Conflictions
Why won't they reply? You've sent off your applications, but you're waiting to hear back. It's been forever ... wait, actually, it's only been a couple of hours. Time flies by so quickly in the day when you're focusing on applications. So you take a breather and go outside for a walk. Binge on Netflix and daytime television. It will happen. They're taking their time, but they'll see your potential through paper. It'll happen ...
3. Empty
Time has passed. You've barely had any responses back. All those minutes spent on those applications disappearing before you ... Your bank account keeps receding further and further, and all the while you can't help but wonder -what on earth are you going to do. So you begin to lower your standards. That job you saw a few weeks back is beginning to look more and more appealing ... Sure it isn't exactly what you're looking for, but it can't hurt to try, can it?
4. The Beginning and The Judge The day has finally come! You get your best outfit on and prep your answers ready for the jury ... Two days later, you receive your rejection. So you try again ... and no luck. Rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat. Who knew talking about yourself could be so exhausting. But you do it again, and this one may be different ... Good God, maybe it's time to consider a new career direction ...
5. Victory At Freaking Last
SUCCESS! After all that pain and self-doubt, you finally found a sweet combination of the two. You found a job that'll bring you closer to your goal. It may not have been in the way you expect but it's the start of everything. It'll also help to pay the bills and countless holidays you have in mind, while you climb up the ladder. You made it and it feels so good!
Closing Thoughts ...
My advice to all of you facing unemployment at this very moment is to have faith. I know it's a cliche, but it's a cliche for a reason. Speaking from personal experience, life has a funny way of giving you need when you least expect it. It may not be what you want right now, but you'll thank fate in the long run. Perspective and time will give you the reasons of why. You don't realise this right now, but this time is a blessing for you in disguise. You can truly reflect on what you want and also use this valuable time to grow and become a better version of you. You have something amazing waiting for you beyond this hurdle. Have faith in yourself and your own ability, even when you are being tested. Keep up the hard work - you will only grow from here :)I wish you the very best of luck in future!
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