10 Things That Make Unemployment a Little Less Awful

Being unemployed can feel like your whole life is on pause. You want to stay motivated, but let’s be honest—you can only refresh Indeed so many times before your soul starts to leak out of your ears.

Yes, job hunting matters. But so does your mindset. So does your energy. So does your life.

If you’re in between jobs, here are 10 inspiring things you can do that actually make this season more meaningful—and yes, they might even help you get hired faster.

1. Learn Something New (for Free)

From YouTube tutorials to free courses on Coursera or Skillshare trials, you can build or sharpen a skill—without spending a dime. Bonus? It gives you something new to put on your resume.

2. Volunteer Somewhere You Care About

Giving back helps your community and your confidence. Plus, employers love seeing someone who uses their time intentionally.

3. Take Care of That One Thing You’ve Been Avoiding

You know the one. Clean out the closet. Schedule the dentist appointment. Knock it out. It helps build momentum and gets you out of the “stuck” feeling.

4. Go Outside Every Day

Seriously. Fresh air. Walking. Sunshine. Even five minutes changes your brain chemistry and keeps your body from stiffening into a sad little question mark.

5. Keep a Wins Journal

Write down one thing a day you did right. A small task. A brave move. A kind gesture. You need proof right now that you’re still showing up—and it adds up.

6. Connect with Someone New

Reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while. Let them know you’re job hunting. Not in a desperate way—just in a “putting feelers out” kind of way. You never know.

7. Take Breaks Without Guilt

You’re allowed to rest. Resting is not giving up. Let yourself watch a movie. Read a book. Take a nap. You’ll come back clearer and stronger.

8. Practice Interview Skills (Without the Pressure)

Not every practice session has to be high-stakes. Record yourself answering common questions or talk it out with a friend. This builds confidence fast.

Need help with this? Synergy HR can coach you through it.

9. Do Something Just Because You Love It

Paint. Bake. Garden. Sing badly to 80s music. The point isn’t perfection—it’s joy. You are allowed to feel joy even in uncertain seasons.

10. Let Someone Help You

You don’t have to do this alone. If job boards are wearing you out and you’re tired of waiting for a callback, come talk to Synergy HR. We work directly with local businesses in both Harrison and Batesville, and we’re always looking to connect with people who are ready to work when the right fit comes along.

Tip: When hiring picks back up, it often moves fast. Having your resume on file can help us match you when something opens that fits your background.

The Takeaway

Being unemployed is hard. But it doesn’t have to be wasted time.

Every day you’re still showing up—learning, helping, resting, applying—you’re building something. And when you’re ready to tag in a little help? We’re here.

👉 Stop by our Harrison or Batesville office—or upload your resume at synergy-hr.org. We’d love to get to know you and see if we can help with your next step.