In the state of our sad, sad economy, many people have lost their jobs. Unemployment can be extremely tough. The government checks cannot compare to the salary that you may have been used to, and looking for a new job seems like an endless and futile task. Here are a few ways to deal with the stresses of being unemployed:
Money - The sudden drop in income can put an incredible burden on an individual and their family. The luxuries that you once enjoyed seem like a distant hope. Eating out at restaurants, going to see movie, or a night on the town begins to instill a sense of worry. No longer can you afford to comfortably wave that magic wand you call a credit card, and you feel the pressure of bill payments stacking up all around you. There are a few ways to still enjoy these so-called luxuries and pay your bills with less stress:
- Everyone needs to eat, and groceries are big time expense. More often than not, you are responsible for feeding more than just yourself, and the cost can skyrocket! This is the perfect time to forget about your favorite restaurant and get creative. Pick some meals that you love, and find the recipes online. Make a list of ingredients and go get them! This is your chance to learn how to cook. Cooking may not the most fun activity, but there is nothing better than eating something delicious that you created!
- When shopping for your groceries, find any way possible to save. Coupons can go a long way, so save them from the Sunday paper. Also, sign up for whatever discount card your local store may carry. It is free, takes less than five minutes, and can save you tons of money.
- As much as you may like the name brand foods, often times the generic brands are dollars cheaper. Suck it up. It doesn't taste that much different.
- Instead of heading to the theater to spend $8-$9 on a ticket, $5 on a small drink, and $7 on popcorn, hit up your local movie rental place and pick out a movie. At most, it will cost you $5 and you can pick up some popcorn at the grocery store for much, MUCH less than the theater. You now have a movie night for 1/3rd the cost!
- If you're in the mood to party, forget the $4 beers, and grab a pack of beer at the store. Call a couple friends, tell them to bring their own drinks, and relax on the back porch. You could even enjoy the game without the loud, obnoxious crowd screaming in your ear.
Almost every activity that you are accustomed to can be done in a different and cheaper way. It may take some time getting used to it, but your new found frugality will save you some much needed money, and it will probably lower your stress level dramatically.
The Job Search - Searching for jobs can be a daunting task, especially when the job market offers little to no positions that fit your needs and qualifications.
- In troubled times, you may have to aim a bit lower than you are used to. The chance of your dream job opening up is slim to none. Try looking for something in the field of work you are interested in. It may pay less, and you may be overqualified, but at least you are interested and earning that much needed paycheck.
- If you can't find a full time job, it may be a good idea to work 2 or 3 part time jobs just to buy some time while you look for the job that is really right for you. It's not ideal, but again, it pays the bills.
- Filling out applications over and over (especially online) can be dejecting. Even more so, when those applications lead nowhere. Try not to be discouraged, because at least your name is out there, and you now have a better chance than if you hadn't filled out the application.
- Sign up for any career search websites. Most, like Monster.com andCareerbuilder.com, will allow you to fill out a profile and upload your resume. This will allow employers to find you. It is rare that it will actually happen, but there is a chance!
Don't give up. Even if you land a job and it is not the one you really want, keep looking! Always keep your eye open for your dream job. In the end, happiness is all that really matters. Times may be tough now, and you may hate your job, but use it to pay the bills while you seek out your desired career.
Stress - Being unemployed can bring about a lot of stress. It can put strain on relationships and can even cause depression. There are ways to cope with the stresses of unemployment:
- Surround yourself with people who are there to support you. Friend, family, and significant others can help you through this time. They will stand behind you and help you through this ordeal. Don't be afraid to lean on them in your time of need.
- Relax. When you find yourself getting worked up over not having a job, take a deep breath, find an activity that you love, and do it. Even if it is only a ten minute break, it will calm you down and allow you to become focused once again. Some possible ideas to help you relax are hiking, reading a book or magazine, yoga, going for a run, or washing your car. Anything that can take your mind off of your employment status for a little while will help you cope with the stress.
Unemployment is absolutely no fun at all. It would be great if we didn't have to work for a living, but the reality is that we all have bills to pay, and the only way to do that is by working. It is imperative to stay focused on your future. You must realize that right now may be tough, but it can only get better. You may have to deal with a job you can't stand for a little while, but eventually something will come along that you will be satisfied with. It is a waiting game, so take the precautions, save your money, and be confident in yourself. The tide will turn, and you will get yours.
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