ALT-19 Making the most of your Unemployment
When you are unemployed, you would probably think that making the most of your employment is to scan all the job vacancies columns in newspapers and on the Internet for a new job, and think of how you can get money to support yourself and your family, especially when you do not have much savings. You would probably not think of the following that you can do instead.
1. Pack up your belongings. If you have been in the job that you have just lost, you might have to cart home boxes of materials that you have accumulated over time. Sort them into various categories such as 'saleables', 'junk it', 'destroy', and 'pass it on'. Do the relevant to the various categories.
2. Clean up your house. You may have been so busy at your job that you have neglected your house. Being unemployed is a good time to be gainfully employed at home. A clean home will also get you and your family feeling better prepared for rough times. It is better to remain healthy than be throwing money into your doctor's pocket because of an unhealthy and unhygienic home environment.
3. Do your sums. Although you may think you do not need the cash for the moment, you do not know how long you will be out of a job. As far as possible, leave your savings intact. You may discover items that you have accumulated over the good times that can be used, recycled or sold for some cash. You may rekindle the love for some hobby that can fetch a few dollars here and there.
4. Go for a short vacation. A short vacation need not mean spending more money. You may take the long bus journey that you never had time for, to another part of the county and stay in a comfortable motel for a few nights. A change in environment does good for body, soul and mind, especially when the farewell to your old job was a rough one on the heart and mind.
5. Look after your family members. You may have left your loved ones in the hands of someone else while you rushed around. Being unemployed means you can finally spend quality time with them and impact their lives the way you always wanted but had no time. You may be pleasantly surprised that a few years down the road, your loved ones will recount those days you 'stayed home' and spent quality time with them.
6. Get to know your neighbours and neighbourhood. You may be surprised how helpful certain neighbours and people in your community are even if the majority are not. Seasoned housewives will be able to tell you where the best deals in the shops can be found while others may lead you to sources of financial aid, as well as temporary or permanent jobs.
7. Catch up with family and friends. While you were slogging away at your job(s), you would probably have had neglected some family members and friends. They may be on Facebook or other social networks, an email or a telephone call away. Look them up. You may never have the opportunity to do this again when you get your next job.
Life may seem bleak for a few months. Stay calm and focused. Man is made to survive, and survive you will, by looking into your own creative gifts that you have probably put aside for your last job. Indeed, many famous persons had their lives turned around when they were laid off. They made the most of their unemployment and discovered their inner strengths. If they could, so can you.
