Wednesday, January 30, 2013

What I've learned from losing my job

It's been six months and I am still unemployed.  As frustrating as this is, I have learned quite a few things about myself during this trying period.  I like bulleted lists, so I'm going to break down the items, below:

  1. I need a set schedule every day.  My husband told me this since day one of my unemployment, and I didn't WANT to believe him.  But, I need a schedule.  I need to get up at a certain time and have a list of items I'd like to accomplish that day, even if I write down "mop floor, job search, make dinner".  Seems futile, but I need structure.  And, it works...try it.  Make a list the night before of items you want to accomplish.  The best part is crossing off those things you did during the day.  It's a trick for you to one, keep your sanity, and two, to keep record of the fact you're not laying around the house all day in your PJ's eating pints of Ben and Jerry's.  However, if you do wish to laze around the house one day, it's okay.  Just don't make a habit of it.  And, maybe make a list of how many pints of Chunky Monkey you eat.  Just kidding.
  2. I need a savings plan.  If you're like me and you're on unemployment, it's pretty sad the amount the government gives you.  For me, I've taken an 80% pay cut.  It's rather disheartening when I've worked most days of my life since the age of 18.  However, it's made me realize I need to cut expenses and save where I can.  Losing my job was a nice, hard, slap in the face that when times are fruitful, SAVE.  Because, you never know when times will change, and your income will drastically decrease.  I started saving what I can and limiting what I spend money on (do I REALLY need that Venti Starbucks Skim Latte today)?  Start small...if it's $1 a week, then be it.  After six months, you'll have $24.  Okay, not millions, but after time, you'll realize you can do without certain things and live on a lot less.  In addition, when you are employed again, you'll think back on today and it's frugality and remember you NEVER want to be in this situation again.  SAVE my friends, SAVE.
  3. I need to get out of the (enter your preferred swear word here) house.  Even if it's for a walk to the library.  It will revive you.  You need interaction with other humans.  You just cannot have the same communication with your cat 'Mittens' as you can with Bob, the librarian.  Strike up a conversation with someone.   Who knows, they may be a contact for your next job opportunity. 
  4. I need to help others so...Volunteer.  There's nothing better than helping someone else who is in need, or in many cases worse off than you.  Volunteering by helping others puts your situation in perspective, and honestly, kicks you in the butt.  You start thinking "what do I have to complain about?" as you realize people in your neighborhood are malnurished, abusing drugs, or victims of domestic abuse.  Charities are dying for volunteers, and there is just not enough to support thier needs.  So, get out there and help.  It costs nothing and helps so much.  A good place to start is Volunteers of America's website.  You'll find local resources to assist in your volunteer efforts:  http://www.voa.org/Get-Involved/Volunteer/Volunteer_Locally

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