We are not robots. If we get discouraged or overwhelmed, our spirits sag and our performance suffers. How do we stay motivated to do our best in turbulent times?

Neither arrogant entitlement nor antagonistic self-protection, self-care is realizing that you're the one who has to show up and perform every day, and you can't do that well if you're overwhelmed, overstressed, bored or afraid of losing your job.

When your ideal dream job is not available what are your alternatives? How do you decide what to do "in the mean time?" You are not condemned to waiting out the recession in a lousy job!

For some of us, networking can feel like an exercise in professional exhibitionism. But you have people in your circles who want to help you, if you only knew what sort of help to ask for. Set the showmanship aside for a more authentic approach.

Do you need a resume makeover? Traditional resume categories don't always communicate our unique skills, attributes, working style, aspirations and transferable skills. What's the alternative?

Between the tough economy, the massive lay-offs at many companies, and the mood of pessimism and fear, it can be difficult to muster the energy and attitude for a long job hunt. How do you keep yourself in the game so that you are making the job contacts you need and coming across as an attractive candidate?

In this special 40-minute episode, Karl, Claudia and Jorge celebrate 100 episodes of Working Matters. Join the celebration and enjoy their no-agenda, no-holds barred banter about work, life and, of course, American Idol. Thanks for your part in making Working Matters the insightful and helpful gathering place for healthy working cultures that it is.

Instead of setting arbitrary goals, build in criteria for progress that will result in better decision-making.

Instead of blaming after the fact, build in opportunities to learn from mistakes, changes and the unexpected.

Instead of working in isolation, build in regular communication and opportunities to ask questions.