Instead of toughening up, I'd suggest two things: * Try to get ahead in your day job. This doesn't necessarily mean making the big bucks. It means being someon

Instead of toughening up, I'd suggest two things: * Try to get ahead in your day job. This doesn't necessarily mean making the big bucks. It means being someone who deserves the big bucks. To find better work and more money you'll probably have to leave. Maybe not, but probably. * Find new jobs through word of mouth, networking, etc. In my experience, this does not equal a slam dunk hire, but it'll get you an interview and they will actually converse with you. They want to find out why you were recommended, and that's a whole different feeling that being "screened". Potential sources of recommendations and job leads include former coworkers (and bosses!), people you meet at user groups, interest groups, etc.