Take Back Control in Your Career Quest: A Stoic Guide to Thriving
Introduction
Searching for a job can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster, with highs of excitement and lows of frustration. Ghosting, unclear feedback, and unprofessional recruitment practices can leave you feeling powerless and demoralised.
But here’s the truth: while you can’t control everything in your career quest, you can control how you respond, where you focus your energy, and how you choose to grow.
The Stoics teach us to distinguish between what we can control and cannot. You reclaim your sense of agency and momentum by channelling your energy into what you can influence. This blog explores how adopting this mindset can empower you to regain control of your career journey, even in the face of challenges.
The Wisdom of the Stoics: Control What You Can
The Stoic philosopher Epictetus said, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” The cornerstone of Stoic philosophy is learning to focus only on what is within your control and letting go of everything else.
In the context of your career quest, this means accepting that you can’t control the behaviour of recruiters, hiring managers, or the broader job market. You can, however, control:
Your output: The quality and consistency of your applications, networking, and outreach.
Your development: Learning new skills, refining your resume, and staying sharp in your field.
Your fitness: Physical and mental health, which fuels resilience and optimism.
Your ethics: Remaining professional and ethical in all interactions, regardless of how others behave.
By focusing on these areas, you take the reins of your career journey and build momentum toward success.
Rising Above Poor Practices
Let’s address the elephant in the room: ghosting, lack of feedback, and unprofessionalism in job searching [CAVEAT: There are also many gems out there doing a fantastic job, and it is a HARD job]. The bad practices are frustrating and can feel deeply unfair. But here’s the reality: they’re out of your control.
The key is not to let them define your mindset.
Stay Stoic: Recognise that unethical behaviour reflects on others, not you. Remain professional, courteous, and ethical—it sets you apart and reinforces your value. Your value is what the gems will see when you connect with them.
Protect Your Energy: Instead of dwelling on poor experiences, channel your energy into creating opportunities elsewhere. Each rejection or delay is a chance to refine your strategy and focus on what’s next.
Taking Back Control: What You Can Do Today
Focus on Your Output
Dedicate time to consistent, high-quality efforts. Tailor your applications, expand your network, and follow up with potential contacts. Measure your success by your input—actions you can control—rather than waiting for external validation.Invest in Your Development
Use this time to sharpen your skills and stay competitive in the job market. Take online courses, attend webinars, or engage in personal projects that demonstrate your expertise. Growth is always within your control.Prioritise Your Well-Being
Physical fitness and mental clarity are key to staying resilient during your job search. Make time for exercise, mindfulness, and hobbies that bring you joy. A healthy mind and body are your strongest assets.Build a Strong Ethical Foundation
Remain professional in all interactions, even when others fall short. Respond to ghosting or rejection with grace, and never compromise your integrity. Being ethical and rising above poor practices is empowering and builds your long-term reputation.
The Power of Reflection
Taking back control starts with self-awareness. Take time to reflect on:
What challenges in your job search are within your control?
Where are you investing energy in things you cannot change?
How can you shift your focus to actions that empower you?
This reflection can clarify your priorities and help you redirect your efforts toward what truly matters.
Conclusion: You Are in Control of Your Story
The Stoics remind us that power lies in our response to challenges. By focusing on what you can control—your output, development, fitness, and ethics—you take back control of your career quest and create a path forward that’s driven by your values and efforts.
Yes, there will be obstacles, frustrations, and moments of doubt. But by rising above what you cannot control and doubling down on what you can, you’ll find success and build confidence and resilience that will serve you for life.
Call to Action
Take a moment today to identify one action within your control that will move you closer to your career goals. Share your progress with your network, lean into your development, and let your next step be a powerful one.
Let’s own this journey together.
