Is It Me? The Struggles of Finding Employment in 2023

As we enter a mild recession in 2023, finding a job has become more challenging than ever before. The traditional path of going to college and finding a job fresh out of school is no longer a given, and the job market has become increasingly competitive. In fact, a study by the Economic Policy Institute has shown that only 65% of recent college graduates have found a job within a year of graduating.

The struggle to find a job can create a juxtaposition of what we want versus what is in the cards for us. We may have a clear idea of what our dream job is, but the reality is that the job market may not have a demand for it at the moment. This can be a difficult pill to swallow, but it can also be an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. It’s important to be open to new opportunities and not limit ourselves to a narrow view of what success looks like.

One of the challenges of the job search process is the ubiquitous “we’ve decided to move forward” message, which is often an automated safety net for companies. In reality, the statistics show that many companies don’t reach out to candidates after this message is sent. This broken expectation can serve as a reminder that we must continue to search immensely and remain true to ourselves.

Comparing the job market now to how it was in the past reveals how the traditional way of finding a job has changed. Our parents’ generation could often find a job fresh out of college, but that’s not the case anymore. The changing job market has created new opportunities and paths to success, such as remote work, freelancing, and entrepreneurship.

In conclusion, the job search process in 2023 can be a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. The juxtaposition of what we want versus what is in the cards for us can challenge us to think deeply about our goals and values. By remaining true to ourselves and being open to new opportunities, we can navigate the changing job market and build fulfilling careers. The struggle to find a job is not a sign of failure, but rather an invitation to embrace change and find meaning in the journey.

You start dying when you stop dreaming.