I recently applied for a job that I really want, and I've found the waiting and worrying to be fairly torturous. I thought I might share with you a few questions that I need to keep in mind during the process that might be helpful to you the next time you are involved in a job search.

Why Do I Want This Job?
Aside from money, we all have other motives when looking for work. I find that one of mine, for better or worse, is ego. Most of us face a long, difficult path to success and a high profile job can seem like a much-needed ego boost.

The reality of work, however, is that we all have challenges and bosses no matter how far up the ladder we climb. I need to keep in mind that stability and recognition are understandable goals but they offer only temporary relief from the insecurities of life.

Does My Job Define Me?
It is certainly easier when you meet someone new to say, "I am a _____."  But those statements are troubling because they imply that my work defines me. In a certain sense work does define us because the life of a writer, for example, is markedly different than that of a salesperson; one involves enormous amounts of time spent alone while the other job means constantly interacting with the public.  But I should remember that, however rewarding a job might be, other aspects of life as just as important.

What Are The Real Rewards Of The Job?
Aside from the cash and corner office, does my job offer me something even more rewarding such as an opportunity to truly help others? One reason I am drawn to the job I am considering at the moment is that it deals with young people facing a challenge that I was also confronted with earlier in life. That seems to me to be a true reward - helping others while also healing a past wound within myself.

What Is The Impact Of This Job?
Those of us in relationships or with families face a complicated decision when presented with a new career opportunity. Some jobs may be immensely appealing to us as individuals but uproot the family.

Others might seem incredibly difficult but would offer our loved ones new opportunities. My goal is to make a decision that is not selfish.

How Do I Take Care Of Myself While I Wait?
For the most part, I have been taking special care of myself during the process of looking at a new career because I know the emotional and spiritual toll that this is taking on me. 

But I also have a tendency when I am nervous to do a little "emotional eating!" And there are many other ways to act out instead of just taking the ride. Instead of using these strategies, I would fare better by staying emotionally and spiritually connected, which inevitably gives me a sense that things will work out as they are supposed to.

I must keep in mind that my body and soul both have to be in shape when I go through major life changes. The next time you are thinking about taking a new job, I hope my experience will be of some help to you.

The Principles
by Patrick Moore
Available now on Lulu.com, Amazon.Com, and BarnesandNoble.com.