The harsh reality of the modern job market is that few professionals stay at one company or in one position for more than a few years at a time. This obviously presents enormous opportunities for pros to follow various career paths. But at the same time, finding yourself in between jobs can be quite unsettling for some. Those used to a regular nine-to-five workday might even be overwhelmed by the amount of free time unemployment entails. With that in mind, today we’re going to share five tips that professionals can use to stay sharp in between jobs. Check them out here:

Take Job-Hunting Seriously

It can be very tempting to blast out hundreds –– or even thousands –– of resumes at one time. While this approach may produce results for some, the fact of the matter is that it’s much better to tailor your resume and cover letter to specific jobs you find. Not only do you have a better chance of landing an interview with this approach, but it also allows you to get to know a prospective employer and decide if their company a good fit for you. Remember, taking the first job you’re offered isn’t always the best way to go.

Learn Something New Every Day

Each day presents a chance to improve yourself and gain more knowledge. As such, make it a point to use your free time productively. Spend an hour at the library, sign up for a dance class, volunteer at a local charity –– just make sure to do something worthwhile that exposes you to new experiences.

Pick up a Side Hustle

Just because you’re in between jobs, it doesn’t mean the bills will stop coming. Thankfully, getting a part-time job can help you keep the creditors at bay. In addition to trendy side hustles like Uber, Lyft, and Airbnb, you should also consider freelancing in your field. Writing blogs or designing web pages is a great way to bolster your C.V. when you don’t have a full-time position.

Study How the Best Work

If you want to become a better chef, then it makes sense to watch videos on how professionals like Gordon Ramsey cook. In the same vein, if your goal is to open up a small business, then it’s a good idea to peruse successful small business websites, like this one from OTW Safety, for instance. What’s more, speaking to leading minds in your industry can grant you valuable insights that you can use to further your own career.

Stay Positive

Sometimes it takes a while to find a job on the market. The key is to not get discouraged. Staying positive might be difficult, but it will enable you to reach your goals in the long run.