The state of being unemployed sucks. Unfortunately, the Kenyan education system does not prepare us for unemployment’s turmoil and psychological effects. You study hard in school to be the best on each level, graduate with honours only to return to the village, and rely on luck to find a job. Luckily, I have discovered five tips to help you beat unemployment.
1. Strong Support System.
Unemployment is a serious issue in our country. Thousands of graduates leave school each year hoping to secure a job. Unfortunately, the majority are still stuck years later. The best thing you can do is fall back on your support system. These are your parents, family and close friends.
The people who hold you down during such times need to speak life, hope, and assurance in this time. Surrounding yourself with people who constantly question your abilities will only make matters worse. They will make you doubt yourself and your skills. A strong support system will breathe life into your struggle for employment.
2. Motivate Yourself.
As much as a strong support system is needed, you are the only support you need. Channel your mind into positive thinking. Keep hope alive. Watch a motivational video or read a motivational book; trust me, it will redirect your focus.
Other people cannot help you if you are kicking yourself down. Be strong, trust that you are the best that you can be, and go for it. What you are afraid of doing is precisely what you should do, so take a deep breath, look at yourself in the mirror, pump yourself up, smile and apply for that job. That’s all the motivation you need.
3. Take A Break.
The job-hunting process is tedious, draining, and time-consuming. Some people work hard at finding a job, and every rejection or failed interview cuts through. It is frustrating. However, do not allow yourself to fall into the pit of depression. Instead, take a break.
If you live in a crazy city, go home upcountry and be with your loved ones. Relax; life is never that serious, and a job will come eventually. You would rather it finds you healthy and strong enough to do it. Please don’t kill yourself over it.
4. Pursue Alternatives.
Getting a job is excellent. It brings meaning and purpose into your life. It is a source of income, so many graduates would do anything to get one. However, when you are job hunting and no job seems to be coming your way, do something else in the meantime.
Start a hobby, follow your passion and see where it leads you. Do volunteer work to gain experience or seek out internships in various companies. Better yet, enrol in that complementary class. Start a business with the money you already have, and you may end up loving it more than you would a job.
5. Don’t Give Up.
You have applied for countless jobs and attended many interviews, and each is a rejection after another. Don’t give up. Someone once said that if you do not sow, you do not reap or stand a chance. Thus, continue applying for those jobs. Continue networking and dreaming. Keep hope alive; eventually, you will look back and have a tale to tell.
Good Luck!♥
Mourine Warui is a media and communication expert and seasoned writer. Her goal is to empower and offer solutions to everyday girl’s problems while provoking candid and authentic conversations. Other goals are to provide inspiration and entertainment to readers through creative, thought-provoking and edgy stories.
