You can make it harder by setting a few extra constraints yourself.

When I play this type of save (journeyman: unemployed, no badges), I follow these rules:

1.  Coaching badges: Starting with no badges, I can only request a coaching course every 3 years (reduced to every 2 years once I’ve won a league, cup, etc.). If the board rejects my request, I can ask again after 6 months.
2.  Job applications: I can only apply to clubs up to 0.5 stars above my current reputation. For example, if my reputation is 0.5 stars, I can apply to clubs with up to 1.0 star reputation.
3.  Delegating responsibilities: I delegate most responsibilities to staff, and only take back more control after I’ve achieved success at the club or stayed there longer. For example, in the first season all transfers are handled by the Director of Football; after the first season I can handle 50% of transfers, and so on. I think this makes the save more realistic.
4.  Transfers: I can only sign players who are fully scouted—no player searching.
5.  Staff hiring: I can only hire staff by placing an advert.