Helpful Meditations to Find Your Calm Before Interviews
Deal with Pesky Pre-Interview Jitters
Let’s face it—preparing for an interview can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! The good news is that with just a few minutes of meditation, you can shake off those nerves and walk into your interview feeling clear-headed and ready to shine. This guide will walk you through a simple, soothing pre-interview meditation routine that will leave you feeling focused, relaxed, and confident. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Breathe Your Worries Away
When we’re anxious, our breathing tends to get shallow, which can add to the tension. Deep breathing is a super simple way to reset and feel more grounded.
Here’s how you can do it:
Find a comfy spot to sit—someplace where you feel at ease. Keep your back straight, and let those shoulders relax.
Close your eyes and take a slow, deep breath through your nose. Let your belly gently expand as you breathe in.
Hold that breath for a count of four.
Now, exhale slowly through your mouth while counting to six.
Repeat this for five to ten minutes—or however long it takes to feel a sense of calm washing over you.
Want to try something different? Give box breathing a shot! It’s just as simple: inhale, hold, exhale, and hold again, each for a count of four. It’s like a reset button for your mind and body.
Step 2: Picture Your Success
Your mind is a powerful tool—let’s put it to good use! Visualization is all about focusing on positive outcomes, and it can be a game-changer.
Here’s how to do it:
Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to settle in.
Now, imagine yourself walking into your interview with confidence. See yourself smiling warmly at the interviewer and answering their questions with ease and enthusiasm.
Play out the entire interview in your mind as if it’s going perfectly. Feel the pride and confidence that come with doing your best!
If that’s not your style, try creating a mental “happy place.” Picture yourself in a relaxing setting—a sunny beach, a peaceful forest, or anywhere that makes you feel calm and happy. Tune into the sights, sounds, and feelings of that place, and let it recharge you.
Step 3: Stay in the Moment
Anxiety often stems from worrying about the future, but mindfulness brings you back to the present where you have control. Let’s focus on the now!
Try this body scan exercise:
Sit or lie down somewhere comfortable and close your eyes.
Pay attention to your breath as it flows in and out—nice and natural.
Now, slowly guide your awareness through your body. Start at your toes and work your way up to the top of your head.
If you notice any tension, visualize it melting away with each breath.
You could also focus on something around you—a flower, a piece of art, or even your coffee mug. Study its details to center yourself and feel grounded.
Extra Tips to Keep Your Cool
Here are a few bonus ideas to help you stay calm and collected:
Positive affirmations: Pump yourself up with phrases like “I’ve got this!” or “I’m prepared and capable.”
Grounding objects: Carry a small, comforting item (like a lucky charm or a smooth stone) to keep you steady and focused.
Be kind to yourself: Everyone gets a little nervous—it’s totally normal! Acknowledge your feelings and remind yourself that you’re doing great.
Time to Shine—And Take the Next Step!
Now that you’ve got your mind in the right place, you’re ready to knock that interview out of the park! But why stop there? Join an upcoming Mock Interview Workshop (or view a recording of a previous session) to take your preparation to the next level. It’s a safe, supportive space where you can practice your skills, fine-tune your answers, and walk into your next interview more confident than ever.
What are you waiting for? Sign up today and let’s get you interview-ready!