6 Ways to Keep Busy While Applying to Jobs

By Kailey Walters on July 16, 2018

The job application process can be long and grueling at times … but while you’re waiting for responses, you may find yourself with extra time on your hands. Too much time sitting around hoping for the phone to ring (or constantly checking your email inbox) isn’t a productive use of your time, nor is it good for you mentally or emotionally.

Instead, find ways to keep busy while you wait for responses. Read on for some suggestions as to how to be productive during the long job application process.

via Pexels.com

1. Get a side job or find ways to make some extra cash.

While a small side job won’t get you the amount of money you want (hence why you’re applying to jobs that will hopefully lead to a long-term career path), they can be good for earning a little pocket money and keeping you occupied.

What’s more, if the side job you choose is somewhat related to the field you want to pursue, it can also look good on your resume. For example, if you’ve got your hopes set on a journalism career, looking into freelance writing might not be a bad idea.

2. Think about volunteering.

A great way to keep yourself productively occupied is to spend time volunteering. Although you might not be getting paid, devoting your own precious free time to a certain cause or organization could be quite uplifting and therapeutic. For instance, if you decide to volunteer at a zoo or an animal shelter, spending time with animals could very well be the stress reliever you need! And, of course, choosing a place to volunteer that aligns with your career interests is always a plus. Not only can you list it on your resume, but you might also have the chance to learn more in general about the career you want to pursue and form connections with people in that field.

3. Take a class.

Whether you want to brush up on some skills that you think will be useful for your intended career or you’re simply bored, taking a class could be a good option. Perhaps look into classes being offered at the colleges and universities near you and see if anything is of interest. You just might be able to learn something new and useful, as well as make connections with other students and professors that could be valuable in the future.

via Pexels.com

4. Consider an internship.

Internships can be quite helpful, whether you’re a recent graduate or you’re looking to switch careers. Although in some instances being referred to as “the intern” could possibly be a little frustrating, internships are still important and can impart a great deal of valuable information and experience. Most significantly, your internship will show that you’re willing to take a number of steps to get to your eventual end goal. After all, grit and determination are highly admirable qualities. Show what a hardworking individual you are through your actions.

5. Learn a new skill.

With all this free time now on your hands, this is the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill (you know, the one you always said you’d get around to when you “have the time”). Whatever your heart desires to learn — whether writing code, cooking some new recipes, or crocheting — clear some space for you to do so, start with an open mind, and get to it.

6. Spend time on yourself.

No doubt, the stress of job hunting can get to you after a while. And (as this article might prove) you probably feel as if you constantly need to keep yourself busy, especially when there’s a lull in your life. That mindset is ingrained in our society, after all — the desire to always have a full plate, to never slow down, lest you appear lazy and unqualified.

However, that drive to always be doing something doesn’t have to be the priority. Instead, challenge yourself to make yourself — your emotional, physical, and mental self — the priority. Rather than rush around to seventeen different meetings and get-togethers and side jobs every day, only to fall into bed utterly exhausted and get only five hours of sleep, make a conscious effort to slow down. Gauge how you’re feeling. Perhaps take note of that and adjust your schedule accordingly. Okay, so you’re waiting for responses from the different jobs you’ve applied to. That doesn’t mean you have to panic or spend your time worrying; what’s done is done. Instead, focus on de-stressing and turning this temporary period of suspenseful waiting into a period of relaxation and self-enjoyment. That can mean different things for everyone — perhaps picking up a long-forgotten hobby again, meditating, or anything that will help you de-stress.

Ultimately, don’t be too worried about your future job prospects or what you’ll do while waiting for potential employers to respond. Make the most of this time and find other ways to be productive!

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