**What Job Seekers Really Say**

Navigating the Ups and Downs of Job Hunting: A Guide to Staying Confident

Job searching can be a daunting and emotionally draining experience, leaving even the most confident individuals feeling uncertain and vulnerable. As a career coach, I've had the privilege of interacting with hundreds of job seekers, and I've heard my fair share of concerns, excuses, and doubts.

It's essential to acknowledge that these feelings are normal, but they can also be major obstacles in landing your dream job. When you lack confidence in your skills and abilities, it's challenging to present yourself as the best candidate. The more rejections you face, the easier it is to doubt yourself, creating a vicious cycle of self-doubt.

I've compiled a list of common statements that job seekers often make, which can hinder their progress. These include:

• "I don't have any connections in the industry."
• "I've been in the same role for decades, and I'm not sure I can adapt to change."
• "I've applied to this company multiple times, and they clearly don't want to hire me."
• "I'm not sure what I want to do, but I'm willing to learn."
• "I've been focused on family care for years, and I don't have any relevant experience to showcase."

These statements often stem from underlying fears and doubts. To overcome them, it's crucial to focus on self-care and emotional well-being. Your priority should be to take care of yourself physically and emotionally, ensuring that your emotions don't sabotage your job search.

It's also essential to identify and challenge limiting beliefs that hold you back. By recognizing these patterns, you can develop a growth mindset and take proactive steps towards your goals.

To get your job search back on track, create a plan of action and set achievable goals for yourself. Ask yourself:

• What activities will I focus on Monday through Friday to secure a new job?
• What skills do I need to develop or improve to increase my chances of getting hired?

By addressing these concerns and developing a strategic approach, you'll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of job hunting and stay confident throughout the process.