Whether you are unemployed by choice, have recently been made redundant or are struggling to find a job, it’s a period in your life which is always difficult. Without structure, routine and regularly pay, the simplest of everyday tasks can be made even more difficult. This impacts upon your well being and can knock your confidence.
So let’s turn this all around! Being unemployed can actually be one of the most fulfilling blessings in disguise and there needn’t be a negative stigma attached to it. Being unemployed can help you realise your true goals, and allow you discover an insight, focus and determination that you may not even have realised you had. With some simple lifestyle changes and ideas you are able to turn your life around, let’s take a look at where you might start:
1: Maintain Daily Structure
One thing that’s easy to let slip when you’re unemployed is daily structure. You might be tempted to stay in bed for longer during the day and go to bed later at night. As daunting as it is to go back out into the world when you’re feeling low, it’s incredibly important to do so. Yes, it is scary, but setting yourself goals each day and regular routines will keep you focussed.
Produce a ‘things to do list’ and ensure you tick off at least one task each day. Re-write and update the list daily and ensure you are giving yourself things to do and achieve. This will keep you feeling confident and stop tasks from getting on top of you.
2: Exercise
Fit in body, fit in mind. Having the extra time on your hands should give you more time to exercise. Exercise is proven to decrease the stress induced hormone cortisol and increase the release of endorphins. Endorphins are essentially your body’s natural pain killers and during and after exercising, the released endorphins provide a heightened sense of well being.
This in turn will help you feel more focused and more relaxed. When we are relaxed we can get more done. Try and get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, even if it’s only a long walk to get out of the house.
3: Network
If you’re looking for a new job, one of the first places you should start is by speaking to friends and family. Of all the best tools in the world, word of mouth is still by far the most effective. Let friends and family know your situation and ask them to keep their eyes out for any positions and speak with friends who own businesses.
Facebook can also be a great way of communicating with close friends and acquaintances. Send out a message to all your friends kindly asking them to inform you of any positions they might come across. Remember you’re not alone in being unemployed and family and friends will be happy to help in almost all circumstances.
4: Focus On Your Hobbies
During busy working lives, it becomes harder to spend time on our hobbies. When unemployed, you’re given a little bit of freedom and breathing space. Make the most of it! Focus on learning more about your favourite subjects or hobbies. You might not get the opportunity to do so for quite a while when you’re back working.
Just giving yourself this chance to learn new things will keep your mind stimulated and allow you to remain focussed. This will help you to remain feeling positive and may open your mind up to new ideas and other areas of interest.
5: Work For Yourself
Being unemployed can often be the reason behind many people starting up their own businesses for future financial security. It’s a time where there are no obstacles and you can try your hand at anything you desire. Try and think of your key skills and areas in which you help other people in your life and see if you’re able to transfer that to a feasible business idea.
Some people worry about the financial aspect of starting up a new business. Try researching information on UK credit cards, start up business loans and other financial information for budding entrepreneurs. There’s plenty of information out there for people who are in exactly the same position as you. It could be one of the most rewarding times of your life.
