3/8/10 -
Karen Saley, Extension Specialist, Pinellas County Extension
Losing a job can be difficult and in this time of unemployment nearing twelve percent in Florida more and more people have to cope with the complexities of being without a job. While each person experiences the loss of a job in different ways there are a few steps we can all take to make moving forward a little easier.
~ Keep a routine. It can be very easy to fall into the trap of wasting the day away and not accomplishing anything. While this may feel good for a short time, the long-term ramifications can be the inability to get motivated again.
~ Take Action. Make a list of things you would like to accomplish to keep you on track. Include everything from household chores, to continuing your education, to refining your job search. Staying busy is the best way to keep moving in the right direction.
~ Reevaluate. With a little bit of down time on your hands, this could be the perfect time to reevaluate your values and goals. As life changes what becomes important can also change so take the time to see if you are still living your dream.
~Don’t do it alone. Losing a job can be very frightening and isolating. Find a trusted friend or family member you can talk with about your concerns. Seek psychological counseling or join a support group to help you through the most difficult issues.
~ Develop a plan. Know where you are financially. Take a look at your emergency fund, your savings and investments, and your debt load. Write a spending plan to help keep your finances under control while you are job hunting. Having a written plan will help you identify areas where you may be able to cut expenses.
Losing a job can be distressing, but with the right frame of mind and a good support system you may well be on your way to having a bigger, better life experience. For more help and resources visit the links below.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml
http://www.nmha.org/
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