Laid Off? Make Lemonade.
I'm In Debt
- Posted:
2/26/2009
Seems everyone I know is getting laid off, afraid of being laid off, or has been affected by a layoff.
What would you do if you were laid off from your job? Being laid off temporarily might not be too bad. Sure, the lack of income will not be easy, but it might give you an opportunity to tackle some things that you might not otherwise be able to accomplish. Why not look at it as a blessing in disguise and make the most of the situation?
These things might be something to consider should you find yourself in this predicament. Hopefully you've got a little money set aside in case you should get laid off, or can sustain until your unemployment pay kicks in - otherwise you're going to have to make finding another source of income a priority before you can do anything else. So, here's
what to do if you get laid off:
Take a temporary job. If you are in dire financial straits, you will probably have to take something just to make ends meet. Being humble enough to do almost anything to bring in money will help. There are some businesses which would consider a temporary worker to help them if they are busy enough. Look for those jobs that reward effort. Being a server at a restaurant does just that, but there are others.
Try another career path. If you have always wanted to try a different career, now might be the time to jump-start that dream. As long as you have the knowledge and some background or experience in your interest, you might be able to get started and replace your old career with a new one, or even start your own freelance business. I'm partial to finding
freelance writing jobs, but you can do whatever it is you're good at.
Fix things around the house. There are lots of items on the ‘honey-do’ list that need to be tackled. That leaky roof, broken downspout, rusted fence. Those are the big projects that never get accomplished because you are too busy with work and too tired when you come home from work to start them.
Go on a vacation. Granted, this depends on money, but if you have ever wanted to go on a vacation abroad or nearby and have the money, then why not? As long as it does not affect your retirement account or other long-term savings, then you should consider it. What a great way to take your mind off of your circumstances and take advantage of the time-off from working.
Volunteer your time. If there is a charity that you identify with and are inclined to donate your time, you can help make a difference not only in your community, but around the world. There are plenty of ways and places to affect society for good. Habitat for Humanity, your local church or parish might need some assistance, food pantries, the hospital... so many options and ways to give your time. The best part of performing these deeds is the good feelings that come from knowing you made a difference in someone’s life. Those are memories that will last a lifetime.
A layoff can be a blessing in disguise should you choose to look at it that way. What's that saying? When life gives you lemons, make lemonade? One thing is for sure, you will remember your "lay off" time for the rest of your life, and tell your children and grandchildren about this rocky time in U.S history... so make it worth remembering.
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If you've been laid off and you pay child support, this article about the impact of job loss on child support might interest you.
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