During the era of COVID, unemployment rates are constantly rising. Though people go through the typical grieving and job search process, finding motivation and self-encouragement can prove to be quite difficult to sustain. When people are faced with adversity, it is objectively easier to wallow in complacency than to be optimistic. This is mostly due to the realistic fear of rejection or a repeat of the loss just experienced. While these are all normal reactions to a large shift in routine, it is important to not succumb to the negative, but rather reach for the positives.

Many may question if positives even exist when experiencing a situation such as this one. However, it is the context in which you are searching for them that makes the difference. What this means, is while there is no blatant positivity being presented when looking at something
such as application rejection or loss of income, there is positivity in other outlets such as reflecting on skills you possess or working on a new venture for yourself. These seemingly unrelated things can bring encouragement and motivation into your routine and even provide new opportunities to thrive off of.

In addition to finding internal self-encouragement and motivation, it is important to realize that this situation is not something you are alone in. Many people are most likely sharing the same attitudes and issues and are seeking someone to resonate with. Having a support group that
can provide understanding and empathy can boost motivation and create new relationships and networks to build rapport and connections with. Uplift yourself while doing the same onto others.

Responsibility is something that more often than not gives more anxiety than it does excitement. However, it is yet another factor that can bring light and inspiration when all feels lost. Creating a set routine for yourself through the use of an online calendar, daily phone reminders or a spreadsheet with self-improving goals reinforces productivity and makes an incentive out of previously draining tasks. It simulates a working environment that was previously non-existent due to the loss of employment and can then pose empowerment when moving on to more
job-specific tasks.

These internal battles we face with ourselves are ones that will in the long run make us stronger individuals filled with resilience even if the current situation feels as though it is stagnant. Internalizing daily affirmations and finding positivity in the unexpected is just a fraction of the mechanisms that can be used to be your best self even in the midst of uncertainty.