When the going gets tough during a job search, sometimes it’s best to step back and ask yourself, “What would Yoda do?”
Yoda always shows up on time to an interview (if not a little early). He dresses sensibly. And, of course, he comes prepared.
And if Yoda doesn’t get the job, he doesn’t get discouraged and give up. In the words of his fellow Jedi, the great Obi-Wan Kenobi: “Strike me down and I will become more powerful than you can possibly imagine!”
Thankfully, you don’t need to be a Jedi Master to benefit from the wisdom of Yoda and his Star Wars compadres. We all have a bit of the Force in us; it’s just a matter of embracing it. So in anticipation of our favorite non-official holiday, Star Wars Day, on May 4, here are some quotes that will serve you well in your quest for a new job.
1. “Do or do not… there is no try.” — Yoda
To be effective in life and in work, you need to go for it and never second-guess yourself. Don’t just try to get a new job, change careers, ask for the salary you deserve or ask somebody to recommend you for a position. Commit fully.
2. “Never tell me the odds.” — Han Solo
If you’re truly devoted to a particular job or career, don’t let the odds stand in your way. Anybody who has ever achieved anything of value went for it, despite the odds.
3. “You will find that many of the truths we cling to depend greatly on our own point of view.” — Obi-Wan Kenobi
Stay open-minded in your job search. Consider jobs that aren’t immediately obvious. Regularly reconsider your goals to ensure they’re still compatible with your skills and desires.
4. “Your eyes can deceive you, don’t trust them.” — Obi-Wan Kenobi
When pursuing your future, listen to your heart as much as your head. What seems tempting on the surface may not always be fulfilling in the end.
5. “Already know that which you need.” — Yoda
Along the same lines as the previous quote, listen to your gut and don’t compromise your goals.
6. “Who’s the more foolish, the fool? Or the fool who follows him?” — Obi-Wan Kenobi
Stand up for what you believe in. Be true to yourself in an interview. Try not to tell them only what you think they want to hear.
7. “All mentors have a way of seeing more of our faults than we would like. It’s the only way we grow.” — Padme
Listen to the feedback you get during the job search. Don’t assume you know it all. Learn from the critiques of others so you can become a stronger job candidate.
8. “Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” — Yoda
Don’t blame others if things aren’t going as planned. Remain patient and open.
9. “The circle is now complete. When I left you I was but the learner. Now I am the master.” — Darth Vader
No matter how impressive your resume is, don’t become arrogant. You’ll just come across as a jerk that nobody wants to work with.
10. “Argh!” — Chewbacca
If you start to get frustrated, don’t forget to decompress with friends! Nothing beats a little venting to get you back on track.
