How a job search can change your life with this simple practice

By Peggy Klingel

Having had the opportunity to work in diverse industries, I am often asked by job searchers for advice on

how to find a new job. Often, the job searcher reaching out is confused, angry, hurt and scared by a

situation that typically snuck up on them and that they have never or rarely faced before. They are

looking for a “quick fix” to a condition that they treat much like having a contagious and potentially

incurable disease. It doesn’t help that former colleagues, friends and family give them a deep sigh when

they hear they are unemployed and a knowing shake of the head for their misery.

It doesn’t have to be this way. We each choose how to respond to whatever challenges life presents us.

Most often, a challenge turns into an opportunity when it is embraced and understood as the

opportunity it can be. Therefore, the biggest advice I give everyone is to understand what they want to

accomplish. If you don’t know where you are going, you are not going to get there.

This is true in job search and in life. It’s easier to run from errand to errand, whipping out emails and

texts, rushing through our daily lives than to hold ourselves accountable for where we are and more

importantly, where we would like to be. It’s uncomfortable to sit still, spend a few moments and

visualize the type of job and life we want to lead because once we do, we have to do something about it,

and that’s hard.

Over the years, there have been innumerable writings on the power of visualization. Despite the many

successful role models visualizing and working their way to success in sports, business and life, few of us

follow their lead. It’s easier not to because it’s scary to try new things. If it was easy, you’d see everyone

visualizing and conjuring up great accomplishments.

We use visualization often in sales training. The sales person that visualizes a pleasant sales meeting will

most likely have an enjoyable discussion with the prospect. The salesperson that visualizes the

handshake from the new customer handing them a signed contract and that feels the smack of high

fives from colleagues as they return to the office with the order will be happier with their results.

How a job search can change your life with this simple practice

The successful sales person doesn’t win the business just by visualizing it happening. They still have to

prepare for the sales call. The achievement of a goal is called an accomplishment because we have to

work to achieve it. It’s not enough to think great thoughts about our future. Circumstances and

opportunities cannot align to help us achieve our goals if we do not get off the couch and get moving.

That’s why I tell job searchers that the time spent between jobs is a gift. This is the time to take stock of

your career and life, to be grateful for everything already achieved and to appreciate the opportunity to

network and catch up with friends, family and colleagues. This is the perfect time to set aside a few

moments to visualize, write down and get excited about your desired future. Take a tiny step towards

achieving that vision. With a clear vision and firm belief in your ability to achieve that vision, you’ll be

amazed at how energizing it is to start moving in the direction of your dreams.

Do you know where you are going?

About the Author

Peggy Klingel is a transformational sales and business development

leader with a record of building market value. Peggy has over

twenty years of successful leadership experience in sales, finance

and operations and specializes in leading change management,

turnaround and startup growth initiatives.

Email Peggy: PeggyKlingel@gmail.com

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