Not having a job IS a job

People react to unemployment in different ways. Some people mourn the loss of the job early. Others ignore the emotional part until later when it often hits them over the head. Some work hard at the beginning of their search and then fall in to a more leisurely search later. Some search in fits and start. The most successful job seekers process the emotional aspect of the loss of the job and then hire themselves to find a new opportunity. They treat the job search like a job.
Treating the job search like a job involves the following. First, set aside time each day to focus on the job search. That time should include searching job sites, fine tuning the resume, applying for jobs, seeking resources for the job search (such as a coach), networking, and sharpening skills. Second, if job seeking is your current job, you need to have a plan, goals, deadlines, and accountability. Write them down and, if helpful, share them with someone who will help to hold you accountable. Third, talk about your job search and let people know you are searching. Do this much like you would do if your "employer" was launching a great new product or promotion and you wanted to promote it to your friends. In this case, you are the product and you need people to be aware you are there. Being aware of your search helps the people in your life keep you in the front of their minds when potential opportunities surface.

Treating the job search like a job has many rewards. First, it should shorten the length of your search. Second, it will help you have purpose, be active and see little successes while you work toward your ultimate goal. Third, it will help you to avoid getting stuck in depression and complaisance. Finally, by putting consistent energy toward your search, you are putting energy out in to the universe that says, "I am here and I will be successful at getting a job I love and that fits my needs." There can't be anything wrong with that kind of energy working for you out in the universe while you work to help yourself.