Loss of a job, for whatever reason, can wallop you financially and emotionally. Here are some tips to help you maintain stability and get back on track.
By Times Staff Writer
Published November 16, 2003
1. Try not to panic. It's natural to experience a period of grieving after losing a job. But don't let yourself dwell on one worst-case scenario after another. Instead, recognize that you're going to survive this, and focus your mind on productive solutions.
2. Be a positive thinker. Negative thinking and speaking can hurt your job search. For instance, if you're an older worker, do you view yourself as experienced and knowledgeable, or just old? Recognize that most employers want to hire energetic, upbeat people.
3. Focus on what you bring to the table. Rather than giving off an air of desperation in job interviews, be confident about ways you can help the employer succeed. That way your overall message will be, "Here's how I'm able to help you," not, "Do you want me? Please?"
4. Be open to new kinds of work. If you've lost your job as a white-collar worker, you can harm your chances of finding employment if you're willing to seek only the same type of work or the same pay. Consider working for smaller companies, and don't view service-sector or blue-collar work as beneath you, especially if money is very tight.
5. Live within your means. If you're envious of your friends' recent purchases or exotic vacations, you may fall into the trap of spending money you don't have on things you don't truly need. Now is the time to focus on food, shelter and your job search.
6. Use credit cards with caution. Especially during a period of unemployment, a credit card can keep you in denial about your true financial situation. Accumulating debt will only add to your stress.
7. Talk about money with your partner. Even when things are going well, it's common for one partner to be unaware that the other partner has different financial priorities and goals. A job loss can put the spotlight on such differences and lead to fights. To avoid this, talk honestly and set goals together about how to cope in the coming weeks and months.
8. Maintain your self-esteem. Don't jump to conclusions that you lost your job because you're not a valued employee. The downturn in the economy has affected all kinds of workers. Your time out of a job is a good opportunity to begin exercising - a decision that will benefit your frame of mind tremendously.
9. Make a budget. Monitor your expenses for a few weeks or a month. Then you'll be able to see where your money is going and decide how you can realistically limit your spending.
10. Realize the potential of your situation. This is an ideal time to reflect on your past employment choices and set goals that may be better and healthier for you. Before you know it, you may be thanking your former employer for letting you go.
