How to Make Ends Meet when Unemployed
Many economists and other experts have expressed that the country is out of recession; yet the unemployment numbers are staggering. And, when you are without employment, clearly there is a financial crisis within your household. Being unemployed is tremendously challenging and it affects each member of the family greatly. As a result, it is imperative that you make life changes in respect of all aspects of your life so as to stay afloat. There are many ways to make ends meet when unemployed.
If you have a family, one of the best things you can do on the onset is to hold a family meeting including your children who are cognizant of the declining economy and inform them of your lost of job. This is not to scare them, but to garner support. Afterall, they will be seeing more of you around the home. It is time to reassure them that the family will get through the hard times by working cohesively. Perhaps, that means that they will have to take their own lunches to school instead of purchasing at the concessionary stand. Or, it may simply mean that the family will have to place the Friday dining out on hold until you retain employment.
This is the time to dust off your coffee maker and start brewing your java at home. The daily purchase of coffee is quite pricey at Starbucks and other coffee houses. You will certainly save a few dollars here. Opt to eat breakfast at home. Purchase items like oatmeal, wholewheat bread, eggs, and other supplies in bulk at a wholesale outlet like BJ's, Costco, or Sam's Club. In fact, secure as much items like food and other household items. Pack the meats and seafood in serving sizes so as to prevent wasteage.
With extra time on your hand, you might be tempted to do unncessary shopping with your credit cards. Do not ignore notices and bills in mail. Make contact with credit card companies and arrange payment plans. Store these cards out of sight and try to make payment with at least the minimum balances on each.
During this time of unemployment, you quite likely may be attending work fairs, filling out applications online and attending interviews, but, you are still without a job. If you possess special skills like in the area of teaching of a subject, maybe you can make this known in your neighborhood or online. Offer to mow your neighbor's lawn at a competitive rate. Or, start up a dog walking business. In addition, if you have a passion for writing, do check out the writing sites like Helium. You can obtain a few dollars for a good article or story.
It is essential that you be creative and innovative at this time. Being unemployed is no bed of roses; however; you can incorporate a few of the above tips and others in order to make ends meet during these challenging times.
