Have you ever noticed that when you are doing something to pay the bills that may or may not really interest you, like temping, there is very little stress involved? Basically, you just leave your job at the office at the end of the day and put your mind on other things. In the same way, though I am in no way advocating becoming a slug or giving less than your best in your duties and responsibilities, this little mind trick can go a long way toward preserving your sanity while doing something you are mentally done with. So, my advice is to "temp" along in your current position, viewing it merely as a transitional period until the right thing shows up. You may find the job itself isn't as bad as you thought. It may be the importance your mind is placing on being "in the right place right now" that is your real enemy.
This brings up the concept of mind management when it comes to finding another position. Temping at a current job is an example of how we must manage our minds during a job change. Similar to divorce, we have all seen people "lose it" when it appears that a basic foundational life structure is rug-pulled from beneath them. Many people handle career transition with this same destabilized attitude.
Some people wait until they "just can't take it anymore" to begin searching for a new position. A rather deadly approach, because desperate and frustrated job-seekers rarely do their best thinking. In Part III, Using a Recruiter, I outline the benefits of always having your updated information on file with your favorite recruiters (current resume, wish list of situations you're interested in hearing about, etc.). One very real benefit is for just this reason: you can hear about opportunities that fit your picture of the "perfect job" while being sane, productive, and somewhat content in your present position. First, you'll certainly make a better decision when you are relatively satisfied. Second, you don't have to re-invent the more desirable than someone desperate to change. In addition, a candidate will often be wooed with more money, perks, etc., when being enticed away from an established, likeable situation.
A final point regarding mind management... adopt a long-term perspective when initiating a job change. By staying physically employed, and relatively mentally engaged (versus being checked out), you place yourself in a better position to find that new job which really calls to you. Waiting until the last minute to "Take calculated risks, begin a search merely adds to it. That is quite different the frustration of not "being in from being rash." the right place." Don't jump from the frying pan into the fire. I repeat... the ideal situation is to always be looking. However, if you have just gotten to the point of no return in your present position, don't fret. First, remain calm-remember the "temp" mindset. That sets the tone for clear thinking. Then actively take the necessary steps starting up the search ladder. Contact your favorite recruiter, or interview new recruiters (with the interview techniques). Give yourself a few months, at the very least, to consider new opportunities. Though your perfect position may actually show up sooner, you will be more calm, cool, and poised to land it when each and every interview is not make-or-break. You'll be able to be yourself and assess your choices comfortably. Adopt a long-term perspective.
