Tougher Times Call for a Tougher Self: How to Survive Unemployment

You have probably felt the pinch, one way or another. The big economic downturn has extended its tentacles across the globe. A domino effect follows after the crash of a significantly renowned bank. People are getting retrenched. More than ever are left unemployed. While you “mourn” at the pathetic economic whirl, while you start scrimping and saving every cent just to make sure that there is enough to pay for next month’s bills, don’t wallow in self-pity. You know it is not going to solve the problem, not any. We know the our greatest enemy is within ourselves. It is time to show what you are made of. Don’t let economic woes bring you down as a person - be it characteristically, psychologically or physically. Here are 5 pointers that you might want to check out on.

Face the Music

And compose a NEW “song”. It is a challenge no doubt. But first thing first. You need to identify that we are indeed in a crisis right now. You need to acknowledge them from the start. There is no need to try pacifying yourself that it is only temporary, or things are not as bad as they seem like. If not, you would be living in self-delusion. You need to acknowledge that there’s a problem, face it with courage, and do something about it. You are responsible for your own living, your own goals, family, dreams. There may be a rocky road ahead. But don’t stop building this “road”. Who knows it could be a path to a pot of gold, a villa, a dream. Always remember this. You are the builder of your own journey. There may be obstacles around the way, but when things go bad, you hold the responsibility to fix it. And keep on moving.

Get a New job, But Lower Your Expectations

Retrenched? Unemployed? Well, what are you waiting for? Start moving on to a new job! It is time to flip through the papers or browse the various job websites. If you think you need more assistance on this, approach a job agency near you. Don’t procrastinate just because you think you can’t do this or that job, or thinking that you are not up to it. Well, the thing is, you would never know till you apply! There is really no loss here. You might treat it as an opportunity for you to try out something new. Been stuck on a previous job that you have absolutely no interests in? Why not go for an alternative now? However, there is one thing you have to take note of. This is a time where you might see that many companies have stopped hiring. Hence, you should not raise your expectations. Instead, lower it. In terms of wages, you should not aim for a higher wage scheme now if you want a better chance to be employed. Start going for interviews and do remember to put on a confident smile!

Pick Up a New Skill or Hobby

So, you have probably been thinking for ages to lay your hands(and fingers) on that piano keyboard, and start playing your favourite classic or pop song. Well, why wait? Learn that new skill now. You might have been previously busy with your career previously. So much so that you have overlooked that intrinsic “child” factor in you – to adore and like a “toy”, be curious about it, and wanting to learn more. Well, it is time to pick up a new hobby! Have you always been interested in playing the piano, guitar, in computers, web design? Be pro-active about it. Go to the library and start borrowing books related to your interests. Who knows, these new skills might be another source of income once you have mastered them!

Spend More Quality Time with Your Family

Hands up for those of you who have been guilty of this. Have you been working overtime every week previously so much so that you just got home in time for dinner and sleep? Did your life go into a mundane mode? If so, this is the time to pick yourself up, and start spending more time with your family. Always remember that you are not the only one going through this economic ordeal. Your other family members might be feeling the pinch too. It is your job, therefore, to assure them with your presence. If you have been very busy previously, now is the time for you to take a short break. Plan for picnics, gatherings, or go for a short trip out of town. Go sightseeing, or whatever. Moreover, it is also good to spend some time together trying to draw out a plan of what to do next. Two heads are better than one. Start listening to advice from your spouse.

Never Give Up

Like the saying that goes “Tough times don’t last, tough men do”, you need to “educate” yourself to keep going in these tough times. A loser would bow down to challenge and stop trying. On the contrary, a winner does not believe in failure, as he sees failure as stepping stones to success. Remain a positive attitude, keep yourself high-spirited. Be proactive about what’s going on around you. Keep up with news and events happenings. You might also want to check out job seminars or workshops. If you think you need to upgrade your skills, why not go for some re-training courses? If you haven’t got a degree, you might also want to opt for the option to further your studies, thus increasing your employability. There are tons of opportunities out there, if you leave your door open to them.