Blog
September 26, 2025
As summer winds down—the sun, the relaxation, the slowing down and focusing on resetting—it’s important to carry your summer self-care mindset with you, particularly during a job search. While I believe some stress can help us stay focused, balancing the demands of a job search with a self-care mindset is crucial to staying motivated and mentally healthy. Let’s explore practical tips on navigating the job hunt while taking care of yourself, focusing on key areas like taking breaks, learning new skills, celebrating small wins, detaching from outcomes, and finding joy in the process.
Taking Breaks
A job search can be all-consuming, so it’s vital to remember the importance of stepping away to recharge. Constantly browsing job boards, perfecting and re-perfecting your resume, and preparing for interviews can lead to burnout if you don’t give yourself permission to step away. Spend time outdoors, go for a walk, maybe even take an off-season beach weekend! Even a 15-minute break can help you maintain balance and approach the search with a clearer, more focused mind. Breaks are not a sign of laziness—they are a crucial component of maintaining your wellbeing during this process.
Learning and Growth Opportunities
While the job search is ongoing, why not use this time to invest in your personal and professional growth? I’ve interviewed several jobseekers over summer who have dialed down the job-seeking and upped their professional and personal development, whether that be through certifications or summer classes in a field they enjoy. The landscape of work is increasingly intertwined with technology, and expanding your skillset in this area can be a proactive way to enhance your resume. Consider taking an online course in data analysis, Excel, or digital marketing—many skills that are in high demand. Not only will this make you a more competitive candidate, but it will also be part of your story during an interview by demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning. This is an opportunity to grow, both in your career and as an individual.
Celebrating Small Wins
During a job search, it’s easy to overlook the small victories. Jobseekers understandably have tunnel vision and are focused primarily on the end result. However, celebrating small moments—like completing a resume update, submitting a job application, or securing an interview—can significantly boost your confidence and motivation. These achievements, no matter how minor they may seem, are steps forward in your journey. While this is easier said than done, I encourage jobseekers to enjoy the journey! Take a moment to acknowledge your progress, perhaps by treating yourself to something special or sharing your success with a friend. Trust me, your friends are always looking for a reason to celebrate with you! Recognizing these wins will keep you energized and focused on the bigger picture.
Detaching from the Outcome
I mentioned tunnel vision—one of the most challenging aspects of a job search is not tying your self-worth to the outcome. It’s important to remember that you are more than your current employment status. Focus on what you can control—your effort, preparation, and mindset—rather than fixating on the result. During summer, you might hear people throw around the terms “island time” or “vacation mindset.” There are probably many interpretations of what these phrases mean but generally relates to not stressing over outcome or timelines you cannot control. While “island time” should certainly be applied in moderation, by detaching from the outcome, you reduce the emotional toll that rejection or uncertainty can bring. Trust that the right opportunity will come in due course, and in the meantime, take pride in the work you’re putting in.
Finding Joy in the Process
Finally, and perhaps more importantly, it’s crucial to find joy in the journey, not just the destination. The process of searching for a job can be an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. Perhaps you’ll uncover new interests, meet inspiring people, or learn something unexpected about yourself along the way. Embrace these moments as part of your story. Remember, every experience—even the challenging ones—contributes to your personal and professional development. Instead of solely focusing on landing that perfect job, find ways to enjoy the process and see where it leads you.
If you find yourself continuing your job search into the fall, keep these summer self-care strategies in mind. By taking breaks, embracing growth opportunities, celebrating small wins, detaching from outcomes, and finding joy in the process, you’ll not only enhance your chances of success but also ensure that you’re taking care of yourself along the way.
