If you are in transition, especially if it’s involuntary and involves a loss of income, the holiday season can seem like an inconvenience, an interruption in your search for the right opportunity.
On the other hand, you may see it as a great excuse to take a break from the frustration and struggle of looking for a job.
Whatever your outlook, here are the three biggest mistakes that I observe when people are in transition during the holidays.
Missing the Unique Opportunities
When you’re in transition, you may have more time. Don’t let that time get away from you without using it for important things.
Maybe now you have the opportunity to spend more time with your kids, whether they are at home or grown.
Is this the time to do things with your spouse that you wouldn’t usually be able to do?
Could this be the right time to start or finish that project; or to develop that idea that’s been in the back of your mind?
Don’t come to the end of your transition and realize that you missed an opportunity.
Neglecting to Reflect, Meditate, and Worship
We all know the holidays are a time for counting our blessings and being thankful. And for people of faith, there is a particular focus on worship.
But when we are in the middle of a transition, it is easy to be consumed with our own problems and challenges.
We look at friends and neighbors and feel they have it all together. The reality is that we are largely unaware of what is going on in their lives.
Also, if I am caught up in my own issues, I tend to lose sight of those suffering in the midst of war, famine, genocide, natural disasters, and other tragedies. It’s easy to miss the opportunity to remember and do something for those less fortunate.
And, if you are like me, there have been many years when the holidays flew by. And because of the busyness of life, you feel like you missed it. It all just happened so fast.
So this may be the year for savoring it, noticing the meaningful symbols of the season, and thinking about why it is important to you.
Putting Off Your Job Search Until the New Year
You are, after all, still in transition.
If you ignore your search, you may come to the new year feeling behind.
Many people think no one is hiring this time of year. Admittedly, some hiring decisions will be delayed until the new year.
But there are ways to take advantage of this time of year.
Organizations typically are not content with a vacuum of leadership. So, if you are a leader, it’s likely that the role is too important to wait to hire someone.
In some organizations, because things are slower, it may be easier to get that conversation with the decision-maker. In addition, people tend to be friendlier this time of year, which may create an opportunity for you.
Because many people will neglect their search, you will have less competition this time of year. And even if they don’t pull the trigger until January, the candidate they choose to hire will likely be someone already on the radar.
As such, I encourage you to make the most of the opportunities with family and friends. Reflect on the meaning of the season. But, at the same time, don’t completely put off pursuing the right opportunity.
Wishing you a happy and blessed holiday season!
