10 Tips to Managing Your Midlife Unemployment Woes
Being jobless is difficult in any stage of life, but finding oneself
unemployed during the midlife years can be especially challenging.
Hardships at this time can include family demands, poor health, lack of
updated skills, financial burdens, and the general feelings of grief and
anger that can accompany a lost job. Luckily, there are many steps you
can take to manage your stress level and be a proactive participant in
your job hunt. Here are 10 tips:
1. Start Your Job Search Immediately
Even if you get severance pay, don’t take a
break and don’t consider this time a vacation. You should be spending
frugally and managing your money more carefully. At this time, finding a
new job should be your number one priority.
2. Let Go With Grace
Holding on to anger only holds you to the
old job. Let go with grace. No matter how poorly you were treated, the
way ahead is forward, never backwards. Do not want to engage in gossip
or display ill will toward your old coworkers and company. Remember, you
don't want to burn bridges because you never know when you will need a
recommendation or what opportunities your previous employment can bring.
3. Lose Weight or Get Fitter
While you shouldn't go on a vacation or
spending bender, you can use this time to better take care of yourself.
Start working out; start eating healthily. Physically, you will feel
better. Furthermore, studies have shown that overweight women earn less
and are less likely to get good performance reviews than those who are
not obese due to discrimination in the workforce. If you don’t need to
lose weight, maintain a regular exercise routine to at least tone up
your body as well as to alleviate some of the stress you are feeling.
4. Brush Up Your Skills
If you’re out of work for any length of
time, software programs many change and new technology may make your
existing skills set obsolete. Take this time to brush up on old skills
as well as to learn some new ones so you can build out your resume and
be a more desirable employee. There are many online tutorials that are
free or offered for a nominal fee; of course, you can always take a
class at your local community college as well.
5. Stay in Contact With Old Coworkers
Put in the effort to keep your old
coworkers. Joining a professional networking site is an easy way to keep
in touch and get your resume out there. Previous coworkers are often a
good source for job leads. Furthermore, make sure your friends know you
are looking for a job as well. You never know who's going to generate a
successful job lead.
6. Reach Out
Being unemployed can be lonely and feel
isolating. Do not let yourself become a hermit and closed off as that
can lead to depression and anxiety. Use this time stay connected to your
friends, or better yet, reconnect with those friends that you have been
thinking about but just haven't had the time for as of late.
7. Spend Time with Your Spouse or Partner
It’s not unusual for marriages to be tested
during stressful times, and midlife unemployment can definitely put a
strain on a relationship. Openly talk to your spouse or partner about
the challenges ahead and commit to working together. If a formerly
stay-at-home spouse must now work, adjust your schedules and household
chores so the unemployed partner can increase his or her nonfinancial
contribution. As stress mounts over time, show appreciation for each
other, talk over your concerns, and remember that all things are
temporary, but your marriage/partnership is for life.
8. Prepare for the Long Haul
It could take months to find a job. Even if
you are getting government unemployment, be conscientious of your
spending and save money if you can. Cut out unnecessary luxuries from
your budget, and think of strategies on how to reduce your spending. You
don't know how long your situation is going to last. You do not want to
have to dip into your savings or retirement fund unless absolutely
necessary.
9. Balance Your Time
While looking for a job should be your
number one priority, very few people can put in 40 hours a week in the
job search. Spend your time strategically, pursuing the most likely job
opportunities, while balancing your time with other activities. Keep
your priories focused on the new job, but allow yourself a few hours
weekly for your mental and physical health as well as some social
recreation.
10. Be Aware of Depression
Handling life's challenges such as
unemployment can be stressful and cause anxiety--that is normal.
However, when your anxiety turns into feelings of hopelessness and
futility, you may have depression. Monitor your mental health regularly,
and if life feels too overwhelming, seek out counseling.
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