I’ve discovered that it’s difficult to mend a broken heart, especially during and right after the holidays. Being unemployed can add to the difficulty.  Yet, I’ve learned (and most experts agree) that gratitude can help with the healing process.

Please Help Me Mend My Broken Heart and Let Me Live Again ~ Bee Gees

BROKEN DOWN AND TIRED

“Tis the season to be jolly,” a songwriter penned. But after sending out resume after resume and not getting interviews, many job seekers are feeling fatigued. Others may be feeling brokenhearted or frustrated after going on several interviews and hearing one or all the following:

1. We chose someone more qualified.
2. This position has been placed on hold.
3. Hearing nothing at all.

Even though the holiday season is supposed to be a time of rejoicing, it can be stressful when you’re unemployed. Friends and family may unintentionally ask intrusive or unpleasant questions:

• Are you working yet?
• Why is it taking so long?
• Are you enjoying your long “vacation”?

Keep your inner peace and be ready to master these conversations with a good attitude. For example, “I’m glad you asked. Everything is going well. I’m looking for the right fit and have several potential leads. I appreciate your interest.” The other person may also offer to assist

And I know you feel like dying. But I promise we’ll take the world to its feet…

AND I’LL RISE UP. I’LL RISE LIKE THE DAY

I’LL RISE UP. I’LL RISE UNAFRAID

I’ll rise up

And I’ll do it a thousand times again

And I’ll rise up, high like the waves

I’ll rise up in spite of the ache

I’ll rise up

And I’ll do it a thousand times again~ Andra Day

Rise Up…A Thousand Times

The more we look for moments to appreciate, the more profound the impact on our outlook on life will be. This, for me, was the key to healing my broken heart, including the one yearning for the perfect job. It’s easy to complain, but the more I’m grateful, the more motivated I feel. It takes rising to the occasion, despite aches, unfairness, loss, and feeling like you’re drowning in your own tears. It helps to track what you’re grateful for and list it daily – every morning and evening. Two ways I have embraced and want to share with you are by creating a blessing jar and a gratitude journal.

1. Blessing Jar

A one-quart mason jar is usually used to make blessing jars. You can also use any empty container big enough to hold a year’s worth of folded-up notes (mine are in a ceramic candy jar). Write notes of appreciation during the day and place them in the container. You can take them out at a specific time. Some people read these at the end of the year. I read them when I need uplifting or reminders of blessings.

2. Gratitude Journal

Journaling is known to be therapeutic. I can attest to the effectiveness of writing down what one is grateful for. Keep in mind that your emotions may be strong as you write, which is a normal part of the therapeutic process. Even Oprah Winfrey wrote about her valuable personal growth experience with gratitude journaling. Take 10 minutes a day:

• MorningWhat’s the first thing you thought of when you woke up?What 3 things are you grateful for today?What can you do to make today great?Today’s Affirmation Statement
• EveningWhat three great things happened today.End of the day Self-Reflection

These are just two methods I use to keep track of my gratitude. Feel free to share your ideas in the comments. Have a safe and joy-filled holiday season.

Ireina Reeves is a Regional Facilitator for Workforce Solutions, which serves 13 counties of the Houston/Galveston region.  Ireina brings over 10 years of experiences to the team in public speaking, curriculum development, staff training, career consulting, resume writing, and recruiting. She has presented and advised professionals across several industries such as legal, government, collegiate, corporate, and nonprofit organizations. She has a zeal for helping job seekers reach their full potential by removing obstacles and tailoring strategies in today’s labor market.