[blister]

Don't look for jobs when you're desperate. Look for jobs while you're happy and comfortable in your current position.

It's like investing. Don't buy while the market is going up. Buy after a crash. Buy when the deck is stacked in your favor.

I (mostly) only ever actively look for positions when I'm comfortable in my current position. If a new employer really wants me, they'll bend over backwards to get me. I recommend everyone do the same.

Sometimes you may not have that leverage. In those situations, absolutely take whatever job you have to take to keep your house and keep the electricity flowing. But don't stop looking for a better job.

You are literally the only person on the planet that is going to look out for your best interests. The difference beteween a 100,000 and a 110,000 salary over 30 years is freaking $300,000 (not even counting for investment potential). Maximize your career for yourself.