Getting bogged down during job search is so common that it’s almost expected. You get all geared up to conquer the world with your new resume, you have a search plan, and you network like crazy. And then, lots of times, nothing happens. The phone doesn’t ring, there are no emails inviting you in for an interview, and that bleak silence can begin to make you feel really discouraged. What can you do?

Here are a few ideas that I’ve gathered from my years of coaching thousands of people in transition:

• expect it (don’t go into a search thinking it’s going to be quick and easy)
• plan for it (put commitments on your calendar that you know will make you feel good, whether it’s taking a class or having coffee with a friend)
• try to turn these feelings into action, even one small action such as targeting a company where you’d really like to work
• put some of your focus on helping others. You can do this with a search buddy or on a Job Search Work Team, or sign up to volunteer–but make sure that you’ll be doing something you enjoy
• remember, things can change in an instant. It only takes one “yes” to get you to a wonderful job, but you’ve got to work your plan to get there.

Is this easy? No. Do most of us want to do it? No. But the stakes are too high to let discouragement stop us. And a last idea:  read a good book on getting through the search process so you know you’re not alone. My first book, “Eliminated! Now What?” is full of true stories about job seekers who made it through tough times.