Forgiveness?

Yes.

Forgiveness.

We hear a lot about writing the all-important thank you note to express appreciation.

But forgiveness also plays an equal part in a job search, whether you realize it or not.

There’s a lot to be angry about during this stressful time. Especially when you get a rejection notice.  So many times, job seekers say to themselves angrily: “Those idiots! They don’t even GET how much I could have done for them!”

Nelson Mandela’s passing reminds us that forgiveness is the ultimate key to freedom.  Upon reflecting on his release from imprisonment, he said, “As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.”

Taking a moment to step back and practice forgiveness… which can be the thing that frees up your soul for the job search.

Forgiveness for past employers if you didn’t part on good terms.

Forgiveness of previous bosses who may not have treated you the way you wanted to be treated.

Forgiveness for family members frustrated with your search.

Forgiveness for the employer that SHOULD have been the perfect fit but did not hire you.

Forgiveness for yourself for making a big mistake on the job.

Forgiveness for yourself for the time it is taking to find another job.

You get the drift. It’s all about finding out where you are carrying your anger or frustration, or even grudges, and letting go.

Just like Mandela, if we want to move out of our own prisons that we build around ourselves, we need to do the same, especially within a job search.

Holding onto poisonous thoughts only serves to hold you back from reaching your real dreams and potential.