My 6-year old plays the drums. Okay, not real drums ... Rock Band drums. He's pretty good. But sometimes, the songs get the better of him. Yesterday was one of those days. He kept getting knocked out, and it was finally too much for him: he burst into tears and walked away, ready to give up. My husband helped him take a deep breath, and they try again. He did. And guess what? He nailed it, and was the happiest kid on earth. I wish you could have seen his face!

Job hunting is tough stuff, and some days it will take the wind out of you. When it does, allow yourself to stop. Breathe. Walk away. But then get back on that horse and try again. Because you can!

And if you cannot do it on your own, go get the support you need from a friend or a neighbor or a loved one. My husband was the voice my son needed. Who is yours? Have you asked someone to be your champion during this tough time? Do it! Do not do this alone! there is no good reason to. There are people in your life who will help you get back on that horse ... but you have to reach out and ask.

Here is what my son reminded me ... that we all need to do:

1. Stop!
2. Breathe!
3. Walk away
4. Ask for help / support / encouragement
5. Go try it again!