Simply Irene

“Unemployment happens to most people at some point. You are not alone.”

Today, I want to get personal and share not just why I started vlogging my unemployment journey, but also what September looked like in real numbers.

Job searching can feel like a rollercoaster, and being unemployed often comes with a mix of emotions that people rarely talk about openly. That’s why I started vlogging. I wanted to show the ups and downs honestly and create a space where people could see that they are not alone in this journey.

If you want to watch my vlogs, check out my YouTube channel here: Sincerely by Irene

Why I Started Vlogging

Vlogging my job search has become so much more than just recording my daily activities. At first, I wasn’t sure if anyone would care to watch, but I realized that sharing the journey could be powerful for both myself and others. Here’s why I decided to start:

• Breaking the shame around unemployment
  Unemployment can feel isolating and, frankly, a little embarrassing. I wanted to show that it is a normal part of many people’s career paths. By sharing my honest experiences, I hope to help others feel less alone and remove the stigma that comes with not being employed.
• Showing that job searching doesn’t have to consume your life
  It’s easy to get sucked into the mindset that you need to spend 40 or more hours a week just sending applications, tweaking resumes, and stressing over responses. Vlogging allows me to show that balance is possible. You can apply strategically, keep momentum, and still make room for hobbies, self-care, and the things that make life enjoyable.
• Demonstrating the importance of maintaining balance
  Through my vlogs, I share moments like cooking a new recipe, enjoying a walk, or working on a personal project. These everyday activities might seem small, but they are crucial to mental health and keeping perspective while job searching. Life does not stop when you are unemployed.
• Holding myself accountable
  Recording my progress motivates me to stay consistent and organized. Knowing that I will share my updates helps me track applications, follow-ups, and interviews. It’s a gentle nudge to stay disciplined without letting the process become overwhelming.
• Creating community and connection
  One of the most rewarding aspects of vlogging has been building a small but supportive community. Through comments, messages, and shared experiences, I’ve realized that so many people are going through similar challenges. It feels empowering to show that none of us are truly alone in this journey.
• Sharing lessons and insights in real time
  I want my vlogs to be practical as well as personal. By sharing what’s working, what isn’t, and the emotional highs and lows, I hope to provide insights that help others navigate their job searches more confidently and with less stress.

Vlogging has become a space where honesty meets strategy. It reminds me that the job search is not just about getting a job—it’s about building resilience, self-awareness, and a mindset that carries forward into the next opportunity.

My September Job Search Numbers

Now, let’s get real about the numbers. September was a mix of effort, hope, and some disappointment:

• Resumes sent: 66
• Interviews: 5
• Rejections: 14 (not including 2 rejections that came after interviews)
• Ghosted: 2 companies after interviews

Seeing the numbers on paper makes it feel very real. It can be discouraging to send dozens of resumes and get limited responses, but tracking them is crucial. It helps you notice patterns, celebrate small wins, and keep improving your approach.

Reflection

Vlogging my journey has reminded me of one key thing: unemployment is temporary, but the lessons you learn, the resilience you build, and the balance you maintain will last far longer. My goal is to keep sharing the reality of this journey, break the stigma, and inspire anyone going through the same experience.

I would love to hear from you. Are you documenting your job search journey? What has been your biggest challenge or insight so far? Sharing your story might help someone else feel less alone.

Talk to you next week!

Irene