Getting a Remote Job Is a Bit Like Achieving a Weight Goal

Getting a remote job is a bit like trying to hit a weight goal.

Stay with me, this analogy might be exactly what you need.

Both goals are achievable.

You exercise, eat well.

You apply to the right roles, interview well.

Simple right?

But just because something is simple… doesn’t mean it’s easy.

If you’ve been applying to remote jobs for months and getting crickets (or rejection emails), it’s not because you’re lazy, unqualified, or incapable.

It probably just means you’re missing the right structure, support, or strategy.

Let’s break it down 👇

“I’m doing everything right… so why isn’t it working?”

That’s what people say 3 months into a new workout plan when the scale still hasn’t moved.

And it's what I hear from job seekers all the time:

“I’ve applied to 100 jobs. I’m doing everything right. But I haven’t even landed one interview.”

Here’s the tough truth:

If you’ve been consistent for 3+ months and you’re not seeing any progress, something is wrong.

Not with you, but with your approach.

And the longer you keep doing the wrong thing, the more burnt out and discouraged you’ll feel.

So let’s get honest about what’s missing, and how to fix it.

What Losing Weight and Getting a Remote Job Have in Common

Let’s expand the metaphor a bit:

Reaching your weight/fitness goal = Getting a remote job

A meal and workout plan = a remote job search strategy

Calorie Tracking = feedback from remote work experts

Meal Prep = Resume + LinkedIn Optimization

Working out = Targeted Job Applications

Rest days = REST DAYS!

Personal Trainer = Remote Job Coach and Mentor

Weekly Weigh-Ins = Interviews and Actionable Feedback

In both cases, information is not the issue.

We all know broccoli is healthier than chips. Just like we know customizing a resume is better than using one generic version.

But execution? That’s where most people struggle.

And doing it all alone? That’s what makes it so hard to sustain.

The 3-Month Plateau is Real (and Fixable)

Here’s a rough timeline for a typical job search:

  • Month 1: High energy. You’re pumped. Updating your resume, watching webinars, applying to anything semi-relevant.

  • Month 2: You start getting generic rejection emails… or worse, nothing at all.

  • Month 3: Motivation drops. Self-doubt creeps in. You wonder if something’s wrong with you.

Let's be clear:

If you’re putting in consistent effort and getting zero traction, it’s not a sign to give up.

It’s a sign to get support, assess your strategy, and course-correct.

The 4 Elements of a Job Search That Actually Works

If you want results, here’s what to focus on (same way you’d focus on calories, workouts, and sleep for fitness):

1. Clear Strategy

Stop applying everywhere. Start applying smart.

Pick a niche, tailor your applications, and focus on roles aligned with your skills and goals.

2. Strong Materials

Generic won’t cut it.

Your resume, LinkedIn, and cover letters need to scream “I’m the right fit for this role and company .”

3. Consistency & Metrics

Track your actions and results.

How many jobs are you applying to per week? How many interviews? Where’s the drop-off?

4. Accountability & Feedback

Don’t go it alone.

Find a mentor, coach, or community that can spot what you’re missing and keep you motivated.

You wouldn't try to bench press 100kg without a spotter.

So why try to land your dream job without guidance?

Want Better Results? Change the Approach, Not the Goal

The biggest mistake I see?

People assume no progress = failure.

But just like a good personal trainer will tweak your form instead of blaming your body, a smart job search strategy focuses on adjustments, not judgment.

You don’t need to start from scratch. You need to spot what’s not working, orand fix it.

Here’s the upside:

Once you identify and correct the gaps, things move fast.

You’re Closer Than You Think

If you’re reading this, you’re not lazy or unmotivated.

You’re just someone who hasn’t been given the right structure yet.

So instead of applying to another 50 jobs this week the same way you did last week…

👉 Take a step back.

👉 Audit your approach.

👉 Get support.

You can land a remote role.

But just like getting in shape, the magic isn’t in doing more, it’s in doing it right.

If you’ve been applying for months and you aren’t getting any traction, don’t guess what the problem is. Book a consultation call and let’s talk about how to find remote work that fits your life.

Stay Rebellious,

Michelle

This week’s article is sponsored by Remotivated. Remotivated helps exceptional remote-first companies turn their culture into a competitive edge. Through their Top Remote Culture certification, they transform employee experiences into powerful social proof that attracts both top talent and loyal customers. The remote revolution already happened, and Remotivated is here to make sure it thrives.

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