Into Motivation

Taking a career break in the middle of a recession is probably not the best idea, but sometimes we are forced to do so, especially when we are expecting a new arrival. Household budgets are difficult to balance at the best of times and the thought of being a full-time mum can be attractive, but hardly realistic. Whenever we’re ready to get back into the job market we need to look for ways to catch up economically.

With unemployment rates so high, the labour market can seem to be an even more daunting proposition than usual. This is not the time to be recalcitrant however, as you need to double your preparation and negotiation skills along with your self-confidence. Sit down and look at your financial position carefully, computing your needs for the months and years ahead of you. Be reasonable here, but cut everything that is not absolutely necessary. You should be very clear about your financial requirements, the absolute minimums and the ideal scenarios.

While you may have been quite happy with your career prior to the break, this is an opportunity for you to really evaluate whether you want to go back into that line of business, or whether you want to explore something new. Is this the time to consider setting up your own business, for example? If your financial analysis shows you that you can expect reasonable returns from self-employment and still make ends meet, then this option may allow you to create a good deal more flexibility in your life, down the road. This may well be the time to consider professional coaching as these are some very significant and potentially very impactful decisions. Specific coaching for women in your position will help you determine the correct path.

It’s important to be positive and never to focus on the negative. Determine what your strengths are, write them down on

a piece of paper and keep them next to you at all times. Focus on your psyche and project yourself well in all your phone calls, e-mails or conversations.

When looking at a particular position, always consider jobs that may be beneath, but would naturally form part of a career progression in this field. You may be overqualified, but if it gives you a stepping-stone toward your ideal position, by going the extra mile you will soon find that you become eligible (and get) the position that you want.

Even in this tough hiring environment, those people who really stand out, help and over-perform will still get ahead of the unfortunate majority who do not. If you remember that it is in your mindset to succeed, then you will.

Call on all the inner strength that you know you have as you will certainly need it. We cannot help but hear all the negative news about the economy and jobs on a daily basis and might be inclined to believe that our task is monumental, a hill too steep to climb. However, remember to take this journey one step at a time and always be 100% sure about your ability and chances of getting a position before you pick up that phone or type that e-mail. A useful tip — take a deep breath and even stand up when you make a phone call. If you have a drooping mindset or a sagging posture this will not help you. Always smile as you talk on the phone as well.

These days, online life coaching can provide you with the boost you require when you need it, especially in those periods of negativity. You can do it!

Amanda Alexander, Director of Coaching Mums, helps pressure-cooked, stressed working mums who long for more hours in the day. Through her coaching programmes and online life coaching courses, Amanda shows mums how to create fulfilling and successful lives. For your simple 5 step guide to balance as a working mum, download our free eBook today!