The shock of a layoff is about more than losing your job. You can also lose your confidence. Though you may feel you’ve lost control, you can find ways to take charge in areas where you still have control. Use these five confidence builders to stay motivated during your job search:

1. Reset your perspective

Even though it can feel like forever, remember this problem is temporary. Seven percent may be unemployed right now, but that means 93% are employed. You will be one of them again. Make an effort to find something to be grateful for – your health, family, friends. Gratitude will give you the kinds of positive emotion that fosters resilience in tough times.

2. Don’t wallow in the past, focus on the future.

In many cases, layoffs are indiscriminate and there is nothing you could have done. Don’t interpret your job loss as an indication of your worth as a worker. Bad things happen to great people. Don’t overanalyze – instead use your energy to land your next job.

3. Seek support in three ways.

Seek a support group, reach out to friends who’ve gone through this before, or talk with others who have been laid off, but have a positive attitude. These conversations will help you see that your feelings are not unusual.
Ask one or two people to be your cheerleaders when you get discouraged. When things are moving as quickly as you’d like, your cheerleaders will remind you of all the reasons to stay positive and persevere.
Have an accountability partner. Share the actions steps you will take to land your next job. Studies show that when you share your intentions, you are more likely to follow through.

4. Focus goals in one-day and seven-day increments.

It’s not enough to set one big goal of getting a new job. A big goal can be overwhelming, but the achievement of small goals will build your confidence. Set bite-sized, actionable sub-goals you can aim for every day and every week – this way you can easily measure your progress. For example, “I will attend at least two social functions each week, where I meet new people or reconnect with old colleagues and friends.” Be flexible and adjust goals as you get feedback and new information.

5. Don’t give up!

Dig in your heels and live up to the old mantra, “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” You can make it through this challenge, but you must make up your mind to. If you take this approach, you’ll be a better person for it. Don’t just go through the challenge, grow through it.

Valorie Burton is a professional speaker, life coach and the author of five books, including What’s Really Holding You Back?, Listen to Your Life, and How Did I Get So Busy? The 28-Day Plan to Free Your Time, Reclaim Your Schedule and Reconnect with What Matters Most. Subscribe to her free e-newsletter at www.valorieburton.com and follow her at www.twitter.com/valorieburton.