One of the hardest things to do in a marathon or a 12-mile road march is to stay motivated. All too often, our aches and pains take over in our minds and, if we’re not careful, we can succumb to the “monkey on our back.”
Head down, brain off, one foot in front of the other.
While life is not always just a road march, there is a time to think and a time to act.
When you are building your tools and making your contacts, thinking is definitely required. But it’s just as important to stay motivated and complete all the tasks—not just a few times, but over and over and over again.
I do not care how great your resume sings or your shoes shine. If you do not use them repeatedly, you will not advance. I know far too many people who spend more time thinking about how they feel, rather than making something happen.
There are groups and online sites that can be very helpful in staying motivated during a job search. Some are local and some are national, but there is surely one or two that will fit well with you.
Remember, “Winners attract winners!” So, look for the winners like you and cut bait on those that drag you down.
Lastly, motivate others. That is where your battle buddy comes in. I believe no one should ever be alone—in battle or celebration. So, make sure your battle buddy is walking and talking you through this phase and, if you’re doing great, then reach out to your buddy and push and pull them along until they are standing tall, too.
The Veteran’s Approach to a Job Search Series:
- Military mentality.
- Identify skills, education, and experience.
- Decide what you are qualified to do.
- Prepare your resume.
- Continue your education, if necessary.
- Plan your work, work your plan.
- Network with everyone.
- Use all your resources.
- Dress to impress.
- Follow-up.
- Stay motivated, motivate others.
- Volunteer or get a part-time job.
About the Author:
Darren Sherrard is the associate director for Recruitment Marketing and Advertising at VA’s Office of Workforce Management and Consulting. Darren retired from the U.S. Army with 20 years of service. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management, is a Senior Fellow of Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education, a Certified Contracting Officer Representative (COR) II and a Federal Acquisition Corps Program Manager (PM) I.
