By: Shawna Wright

Karma centers on the belief of “what goes around, comes around.” In short, the way you look at and react to the world around you directly affects your circumstances. The same thing can be said for the job search process. It can become a long and draining experience—an article from CareerBuilder.com suggests that you should “…expect it to take at least three months to find a job that pays $40,000. Add one month for every $10,000 more you want in salary.” Job seekers finding themselves facing another dead end can get frustrated, disappointed and understandably apprehensive. Many hunker down, staying at their computer for hours. But uninterrupted job hunting is a bad thing. The anxiety and stress wears you down mentally, physically and emotionally. Suddenly it feels like you are in too deep and it’s easy to lose sight of where you are.

Here are some ways to stay healthy—both in mind and body—while you continue your job search.

Mentally

Take the time to learn a new skill, especially one that is applicable to your career goals. Most everyone has a basic understanding of Microsoft Office, so learn a new computer program that boosts your value to a potential employer. Tools like Apple’s Keynote and Adobe Flash are slowly replacing traditional PowerPoint presentations because they can create more dynamic and captivating productions. It’s important to stay positive during the Boston Job hunt. Learning a new skill can make you feel that you’re during something productive with your time. Concentrate on how accomplished you’ll feel when you can add another line to your resume.

To maintain a sense of control, do something every day that offers concrete results. It can be as simple as cleaning out a closet, organizing the garage or washing your car. Reward yourself with something that denotes “job well done.” As far as job searching goes, pride yourself on the things you accomplished that day—sent out X number of resumes, made contact with HR manager Y—rather than waiting to celebrate what you’ve done. It’s critical to strive to maintain a glass half-full mentality.

Physically

It may sound trite, but exercising and eating right can keep you in a more positive mindset during the Boston Job search. Exercise gives your brain a much-needed reprieve from sending out resumes and cover letters. Exercising also releases endorphins, a natural pick-me-up and helps constructively release frustration and anger. However, many job seekers are cancelling their subscription to the local gym or yoga studio, trying to cut back on expenses. You don’t have to work with a personal trainer to make excerise worth it. Go for daily walks with a friend. Rent pilates videos from the library and turn your living room into a mini-fitness center. Find something that keeps you active and gives you a well deserved time-out from job hunting.

Emotionally

When people begin to feel demoralized, they often start turning down social invitations. Staying connected to the outside world is extremely important for your emotional and mental health. There’s no need to go it alone. Connect regularly with other people, both in your professional and personal circles. Reaching out to others during this time is one way to help you feel valuable — and valued. Identify those people who have confidence in you and build your own confidence in yourself.