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If I could give you a gift this Holiday Season it would be the gift of high self-esteem.  A Job Search, especially a lengthy job search can take it’s toll, on even the most confident person.

Self-esteem is a term used in psychology to reflect your appraisal or your own worth. Self-esteem encompasses beliefs and emotions.

It is normal for you to identify with your career. When you are not employed, your belief system and emotions change and can actually sabotage your ability to find a job.

Take time this Holiday Season to remember that you are not defined by your employment status. Reflect back on a time when you were confident and at the top of your "game". That is the person who needs to conduct your search. Your cover letters, phone calls and interviews will greatly improve when you KNOW you are the best person for the job!

If you are going to succeed at your job search, now is the time to identify what is most important to you in the coming year. When you have a clear picture of what you are attempting to achieve, it will keep you motivated to put additional effort into your search.

The problem with most goals is they get the same attention as New Year’s Resolutions. Most are forgotten in a matter of days or weeks. This year write down 10 goals for yourself in various areas of your life which could include: career, health, financial, personal, spiritual, philanthropic, education and any other area that is important to you.

Write down your goal, followed by 4 or 5 action items which are specific steps you will take to achieve each goal you have set. Next, date each action item. When you write goals down, identify steps and date them, you have greatly improved the probability that they will become your reality in the coming year.

The important last step is to post them where you can see and read them daily. When you get frustrated in your search, keep reading them to stay motivated. Let the people you care about know your goals so they can also help you achieve them.

The holidays can be difficult to navigate when you’re in the middle of a job search, but there are ways to connect with potential employers during this busy time of year.  Attend any and all holiday gatherings and pass out your “Free Agent in the Open Job Market” business cards or simply your contact information.  Volunteer to help others less fortunate than you.  Most extremely successful people are philanthropic and you never know what connections can be made.  It is also a wonderful thing to put yourself in situations where you are serving others, reminding you to appreciate what you have and practice gratitude. As many of you know, being out of work is a very challenging situation on many levels; being of service instantly lifts your spirits and those around you. Who knows, you may just meet your next employer as a result of your kindness!

I have watched this video several times over the past couple of years and find value in its message each and every time. I encourage you to watch and see what you take away. It's a great way to find that much needed inspiration on a Monday morning. Enjoy...and then push harder...in everything that you do!