My Job Search Has Been Difficult, How Do I Stay Motivated in the New Year?

By Teri Bisceglia, MA, GCDF, CFJST, CFCC, CPRW, Employment & Training Consultant

I was recently talking with a job seeker about their job search efforts. They shared that they were feeling discouraged and worried about losing their motivation. Does this sound familiar? I know that when I was job searching, it was challenging to stay motivated as my unemployment dragged on.  

Staying motivated in your job search, especially after a challenging year, can be tough, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can regain your energy and focus. Remember, setbacks don’t define you—they’re just part of the process.

Here are some practical tips to help you stay motivated and turn 2026 into a successful year for your career:

1. Reflect and Reframe

  • Identify & Celebrate Small Wins: Updated your resume? Got an interview? Think about what you learned – new skills, networking connections, etc. Those are steps forward.

  • Learn from Setbacks: Identify what didn’t work, adjust your approach.

  • Shift Your Mindset & Focus on Growth: Every challenge is an opportunity to grow.

2. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

  • Manageable Tasks: Break your search into weekly tasks (e.g., apply to five jobs, attend one event).

  • Track & Celebrate Progress: Track your progress and celebrate small achievements along the way as well as larger milestones.

3. Refresh Your Approach/Strategy - Stay Flexible & Open-Minded

  • Focus on Quality Over Quantity: Focus on roles that truly align with your skills and career goals instead of mass-applying to every listing. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each role.

  • Update Your Materials: Make sure your LinkedIn, resume, and cover letter reflect your latest skills and accomplishments.

  • Explore New Paths: Explore different industries or roles where your skills may be transferable. Consider freelance, contract, or temp roles to gain experience.

4. Build a Routine

  • Job Search is a Job: Treat your job search like a job whether you’re job searching, submitting applications, networking or skill-building—set hours, take breaks, and stay consistent.

  • Balance: Balance your schedule with self-care including breaks, exercise, hobbies, etc. to avoid burnout, create structure and maintain momentum.

5. Lean on Your Support Network – Seek Feedback & Guidance

  • Connect: Talk with friends, family, mentors, or join job seeker groups or forums like our Job Club (virtual & in-person): www.frederickworks.com/events, who can offer encouragement, exchange tips and support, and connect with others in similar situations.

  • Gain: Professional insights, feedback and resources through our Job Search Support service. Schedule appointment or walk-in during designated hours. Also check out our workshops, hot jobs, labor market information, and more at our website, www.frederickworks.com.

6. Stay Organized – Proactive – Track & Measure Progress

  • Tools: Use Excel, Google Sheets or another spreadsheet or journal to track applications, follow-ups, feedback and interviews.

  • Reminder & Reflection: Set reminders, and review and reflect on your progress weekly – identify what’s working and areas for improvement.

7. Prioritize Self-Care

  • Treat Yourself Kindly: Take breaks, stay active, and do things that bring you joy.

  • Remember: job searching is tough, and setbacks don’t define your worth.

8. Invest in Yourself

  • Upskill: Invest in learning new skills, certifications, or technologies that are in demand in your industry. As an Elevate Alumni, you have access to our free online learning platform with over 5,000 courses, Metrix Learning/SkillUp Frederick, www.frederickworks.com/skill-up-frederick. 

Remember, Be Kind to Yourself

  • Recognize that a job search is often a marathon, not a sprint.

  • Avoid comparing yourself to others—everyone’s career journey is unique.

  • Treat yourself to small rewards for your efforts to stay motivated.

Visualize Your Success & Remember Your “Why”

  • Remind yourself why you’re searching for a new job. Whether it’s career growth, financial stability, or personal fulfillment, keep your end goal in mind.

  • Picture yourself landing the job you want; and imagine how it will feel and how the right role will positively impact your life.

  • Create a vision board or list of affirmations to keep your focus on the positive outcomes ahead.

  • Use this motivation to push through challenges and keep your eyes on the prize.

Final Thoughts

The hiring process can be unpredictable, but you can control how you present yourself, how you prepare, and how persistent you are. A challenging job search is tough but not insurmountable. It is a journey, and every step forward—even small ones—brings you closer to success.

Focus on what you can control. Shift your mindset from frustration to opportunity—each application is a chance to refine your approach. With persistence, adaptability, and self-compassion, you can turn this year into a breakthrough moment. 

Job Seekers, MotivationJessica Mills