Is your job search a hobby or a job?

     According to my financial adviser the IRS considers a hobby an activity that does not generate significant net income while a job does.  Net income is the difference between your income and expenses.  Some activities ie photography are very expensive and therefore to difficult to generate income unless you have a good marketing program and regular clientele.  We could apply this concept to your job search/career exploration.  
    The net result of your job search should be employment in your chosen career.  You define what constitute employment.  For some people the goal would be an internship or volunteer experience at in a new company or different career.  This is an appropriate goal if you are still in school or attempting to change careers.  It could be part-time employment for a variety of reasons.  Perhaps you are retired, have other obligations or have physical limitations.  It could be full-time, seasonal, or temporary or permanent. 
     The expenses that you incur will fall into three major categories.  They are time, money and relationships.  Time is the number of hours per day that you devote to seeking another career.  This includes, research, travel, etc.  The financial cost include stationary, postage, phone calls, special attire/equipment, etc.  Many people do not realize that there are emotional costs to a job search or career change because it is not easily measured or tracked.  This cost will effect your relationships.  The most obvious cost is the emotional overflow you experience by being unemployed.  Your spouse/significant other, children and/or parents would experience or observe this overflow.  Your relationship with co-workers can be affected if they believe you are attempting to advance your career at their expense.  They may also avoid you if you were downsized and they are feeling survivors guilt.  They may perceive you as "not pulling" your weight if they believe you are no longer dedicated to the company's mission or field.   Friends could also become victims of your job search if they become overwhelmed by listening to you vent your frustration at not being able to secure suitable employment or if they feel that you are using them to secure employment with their organization.  You can also begin to question your own abilities and value.  There is a financial cost.  This is reflected in obtaining a resume, transportation, having appropriate interview attire and having phone/Internet access. 
      In theory, the more time you invest in your search, the more likely that you consider your search a full-time pursuit and will be successful.   Theoretically this should keep you motivated.  Initially it does however as time progresses they spent less time in the process.  This is attributed to a loss of  interest or depression.  I believe the loss of momentum can be attributed to increasing emotional or relationships costs. 
      So how do you keep your job search expenses down.  The financial cost should level off once you obtain stationary, an interview suit and other tangible items.  The emotional costs can be mitigated by developing multiple support groups or networks.  Other options include developing an exercise routine, maintaining daily schedules and grooming habits as well as new hobbies.  Be prepared for the loss of friends and acquaintances.  Try to reach out and understand their concerns.  If this is an important relationship seek professional help in order to mediate the break.  Be prepared to accept the fact that not all of your relationships will be able to tolerate the stress of a career transition and judgement should not be assigned to either party. 
      If you would like more information on this subject please contact me at chartingyourcoursewithcoaching@gmail.com.