Whether it’s waiting for a call from an interview for your dream job, the 4-1-1 follow-up on an audition for your awesome band, or an acceptance confirmation on a creative piece you’ve penned, the wait can be hell.
You know the script…
You check your emails several times a day in eager anticipation. You wait by the phone constantly checking to make sure the phone is on the hook. You second guess whether or not you’ve made a good first impression.
Sound familiar?
It seems like every day plays out like dog years.
Unfortunately, it’s a necessary evil that comes with seeking better opportunities and broadening our horizons. But there’s an art to waiting gracefully and making the best use of those endless hours. And if you do it well, you won’t grow weary, you’ll grow wiser.
Here are a few pointers to help you keep your peace and proper perspective, without pulling your hair out.
1. In the famous words of Robert Deniro of the Sopranos, “fuhggetabout it!” That’s right– shift gears and shift your focus. Listen to music and exercise, work on unfinished projects around the house, catch up on some reading, play with the kids. As they say, “a watched pot never boils.”
2. Devise a “Plan B.” There’s nothing worse than expecting a particular outcome and then being detrimented when it doesn’t happen. Hope for the best, but always prepare for the worse.
3. Seek support from a friend, family member or fellow creative artist who knows what you’re going through. They often know what to say or do to help you to overcome doubts, fears, and concerns.
4. Take initiative. Sometimes submissions get lost in cyberspace, folks forget, or busy decision-making people get bogged down. Send an email or place a phone call to check the status. Unless the organization’s guidelines establish otherwise. This puts the ball in your court and gives a sense of empowerment.
5. “Don’t worry, be happy”! Recognize that even in the face of potential rejection, you have achieved much and will continue to do so in the future. Don’t let one job, one freelance assignment, or one situation keep you from recognizing your worth.
Of course a little chocolate in the meantime and in between time never hurts either…
This is a post by Jennifer Brown Banks, a veteran freelance writer and pro blogger. She holds a B.A. in Business Management. Visit her site @ http://penandprosper.blogspot.com/
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