Unemployed? Be Positive

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As with many circumstances in life, during unemployment it is necessary for you to maintain your sense of humor. It also helps to maintain an optimistic and positive point of view. Focus on the bright side—a healthy family, a strong marriage, a place to live. There are many things you can be thankful for.

The shock of losing your job is softened where there is strong social support from family and friends. Maintain or strengthen contacts with your family, friends, neighbors, and community organizations.

One of the major problems created when you lose your job is that it shatters your habits and your normal routines and provides too much free time. As much as possible, try to maintain your daily routines and familiar habits and fill your time in a satisfying and rewarding manner.

Another change in your way of life may be that you will have more time with your family. Look at the possible positive aspects. One side benefit of unemployment could be that while at home, you can get to know your children or spouse or other family members better. Be home when the kids get in from school. Talk with them about school and other events of the day. But be alert to the possibility of "cabin fever."

Job hunting is a job in itself. Career counselors advise a person to devote at least six hours a day to the new job search and to write 15 to 20 letters each week. Prepare for a long job search, especially if your salary is high. Employment specialists advise clients to figure on one month of hunting for each $10,000 of salary.

When you lose your job, look at your abilities and where you want to go. This may just be a turning point in your life that could lead to a reappraisal of your work life.

Source: Billie H. Frazier, Maryland Human Development Specialist, Maryland Cooperative Extension Service, 1982-83, in "Unemployed? Watch Your Stress," Leaflet 150.

Sue Meyers
Family Sociologist

Originally published in September 1983

College of Human Ecology in cooperation with the University of Minnesota Extension Service

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