Your Career Steps
Every career journey starts with small steps. When thinking about your career, break big goals down into small steps you know you can achieve.
Mental health while looking for work
Be strategic, because focus is easier to manage than trying to do everything at once.Know how many hours you want to work, in which area, and what your salary range is – and whether you’re willing to take something that’s less exciting to you for the sake of experience and an income.
Set yourself tasks you know you can achieve.
“I will apply for five jobs every single day” is a tough goal and you might feel overwhelmed by it. Find a goal you know you can achieve and will feel good about achieving. For example, maybe you could apply for at least three jobs a week? Find your balance, then set an achievable goal you can stick to. This SMART goals activity can help.
It’s okay to ask for help with applications.
Do you need someone like a friend, partner, teacher or Jobcentre Plus Work Coach to check your CV or job applications before you apply? There is also lots of good information online about improving your job applications and interview skills.
Do you need financial help or mentoring while you job search?
Lots of organisations are on hand to help you with your needs as you boost your employability skills or look for work.
It’s important to have some you-time every day while you look for work, to keep up your emotional wellbeing.
Seek mental health support if you need it.
Looking for work can be a stressful period in your life, whatever stage you are at in your career journey. Talking to someone can help you feel better.
Mental health at work
Sometimes you can struggle with your mental health and emotional wellbeing while at work. It might be to do with the work environment – or there may be other factors involved. Either way, there are organisations and online resources to help.
Every Mind Matters Mental Health & Covid Parents & CarersMental health and self employment
Being self employed as a freelancer or owning your own business can feel like a great position of responsibility. When times are tough (and even when they’re great) it can still affect your mental health. There are organisations who can help.
Mental Health At Work Leapers
5 NHS Stress Busters
The NHS suggests these 5 steps as a way to improve your mental health and wellbeing, when you are in work or looking for work.
- Connect with other people
- Be physically active
- Learn new skills
- Give to others
- Enjoy the moment
Want to find out more about the do’s and don’ts of each step? Visit NHS 5 steps to mental health and wellbeing.
NHS – 5 Steps