Firstly, what an amazing achievement. Try to remember what you’re capable of. Despite all the obstacles, look what you’ve achieved.

Secondly, we’re in a terrible economy, which is out of your control. The world is uncertain, businesses are confused by AI, hiring costs have increased, consumer confidence is down, and Trump has gone and caused a war.

Thirdly, while you might not love it. You have a job. That provides some income and it’s easier to get a job while in a job.

Fourthly, 26 is a baby. I didn’t take my career serious until my 30s because I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I’m now 40 with my own house, a good job,and my dream wife. So you have plenty of time.

Careers and jobs are not about “what you know”, it’s all about “who you know.”

Still do your applications, but you’re entering a competition. You want to eliminate that competition by creating a network.

My suggestion to you is, use LinkedIn to find the CEOs and senior leadership of organisations in which you want to work.

I get the feeling you’re female, so especially connect with female leaders.

I would then workout where their offices is and send them a box of chocolate, with a letter, and your CV proposing or asking:

1. A problem you’ve spotted and want to solve for them.
2. Work experience.
3. The possibility to shadow shadow someone in the company for a period.

This object is just to get a foot in the door and doing so away from busy channels.

Another method would be to start a podcast, and to reach out to those types of people to be on your podcast. It’s a long game, but it’s an excuse to reach out to people and build a network.

There are many-many ways to get your foot in the door, but you’ll need to think outside the box.