Has this ever happened to you: You have been working at a particular job for a few years. Its not the greatest job and it hasnt always allowed you to capitalize on your unique gifts or talents. But its ok, and it pays the bills. The job has become a part of your lifes routine.

Then one day, without any forewarning, youre let go. In what seems like a split second, you go from being gainfully employed to joining the ranks of the unemployed. Its a shock to the system.

A tremendous level of stress can accompany being unemployed. Youre certainly affected by the loss of income. You may also have a related drop in your level of confidence. Your unemployment may be impacting your home life and personal relationships. There may be a degree of depression that you are dealing with. You may be harboring lingering resentments toward those people responsible for your layoff.

Finding a job is challenging enough; if you bring these emotions into your job search efforts, you will be placing yourself in a very disadvantageous position. You need to be clear-headed and focused to move yourself forward. You must find a way to bring yourself into a more balanced state.

Realizing that you are not alone may be a good first step. Renewing or maintaining friendships is another. Appreciating yourself in every way possible goes a long way. Relaxation exercises, deep breathing, yoga, meditation, working out, and eating healthier foods can make you feel a lot better about yourself.

These steps can help you move past any negative emotions and toward a much healthier mental state. Having a clear and positive vision for yourself and your future may be the icing on the cake needed to launch your job search process and move you quickly in the direction of obtaining your career goals.

You need to know that you will get through this. You will get on the other side of it. It may take some time, and it may not be the most comfortable period in your life. But your willingness to move forward and your intention to stay on track will invariably lead you to the next phase of your career, and life.

Remember, when one door closes, a better and brighter one opens in its place. When a layoff occurs, know that you invariably will face new opportunities that can truly transform your life.

Copyright 2005 TopDog Group All rights reserved.

David Richter

David Richter is a recognized authority on career coaching and job search support. He has spent many years in recruitment, staffing, outplacement, counseling psychology and career management. David understands the mechanisms for success. He has formulated specific strategies anyone can use to secure interviews and receive offers.

His extensive knowledge and experience sets David apart in this field, allowing him to offer a wealth of information and a vast array of tools, resources and strategies not found anywhere else. He has shown countless job seekers how to differentiate themselves and leverage their potential to the highest possible level, making a real difference in their careers.

David holds both a Bachelors and Masters in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology. Author of many books and articles, ?Winning The Resume Game - Insider Secrets To Creating Powerful Resumes? is his first book which has received superlative endorsements from customers and site visitors. Complete information on all of David's books, free tips, tools, strategies and other career resources is available at his website.