For six years, I struggled with my weight. If I showed you pictures from high school and college, you’d see a version of me 35 pounds heavier than I am now. People are often shocked when I share this because I’m petite and haven’t had any major weight fluctuations in years.
Every year, I’d make the same New Year’s resolution: to finally shed the weight. I spent countless hours crafting the perfect diet and workout plan. But the process felt overwhelming, boring to maintain, and frustrating when I’d inevitably sabotage my progress.
Looking back, I see a parallel between my weight-loss journey and the way many people approach job searching. Every January, I hear folks resolve to “find a new job,” and honestly, it makes me shudder. It’s no wonder so many people dread the process—it feels daunting! Just imagine hours spent scrolling through job boards and filling out endless applications. Who wouldn’t feel exhausted just thinking about it?
My “aha” moment about my weight came when I stopped chasing perfection and started focusing on small, manageable actions. Instead of following rigid diets, I began listening to my body—eating when I was hungry, stopping when I was full, and truly enjoying my meals. Exercise became less about losing weight and more about being outside and moving my body in ways I loved.
Job searching is no different. It’s about breaking the process into smaller, more meaningful steps and finding ways to enjoy it. Instead of declaring, “I’m going to get a new job,” what if you reframed your goal? Spend a couple of hours exploring career options because it’s exciting to discover new opportunities. Rewrite your resume, not as a chore, but as a chance to reflect on your accomplishments and tell your story.
By taking things one step at a time, the process becomes far less intimidating. Each action becomes an opportunity to learn, grow, and celebrate what makes you amazing. Finding a job isn’t just about reaching the end goal—it’s about appreciating the journey and recognizing the incredible value you bring.
So, as you step into the New Year, remember to take it day by day. You’ve got this—and the world is waiting to see what you’ll do next.
Happy New Year!