The chances of you or someone you know having been laid off in the 21st century are great. We live in a state of threat and doubt, especially when the economy is showing an alarming unemployment number month after month.
However, I wonder if most of us are contributing to create more fear instead of focusing our attention on what we truly want out of life.
I don’t have the intention of creating an all-inclusive manual on surviving unemployment. First, because this would make me an expert on the subject, and thank goodness I lived through it only once. Second, I am convinced that losing a job can be perceived as a new beginning that comes with the promise of something more fulfilling. I am not being delusional. Honestly, this has been my experience with my husband’s dismissal from his executive position after 18 years of service to a company we regarded as an extension of our home.
Of course, the news was shocking and devastating. I lived in fear, denial and rage for a long time. Nothing changed until I was ready to open my heart and accept the present that the universe had sent our way. Yes, the gift may have come wrapped up in newspaper. But there was gold inside the package. Who would have guessed before opening it?
For starters, what I am trying to convey is the importance of acceptance. Life altered fast and dramatically for the better when I acknowledged the change. It all started with acceptance.
Therefore, I urge you, in the case of unemployment, to accept and give thanks for all you have, no matter what your religious faith or spirituality. Be thankful for life and accept everything present for you right now. When we fail to find happiness in everyday life, we also fail to improve the major areas of life: family, friends, health, knowledge, career and money.
Nothing lasts forever— good or bad. When we learn to go with the flow of life, as well as to focus our attention and intention on what we want, living in fear that something may strike us or our loved ones has no meaning. Life is controlled by the power of our minds and imaginations. Make good use of this and rest assured that the wise universe knows better than we do.
I am not trying to minimize the impact of unemployment and the negative influence it can have us emotionally, physically and spiritually. However, if we are willing to cooperate with life’s lessons, then the benefits we can reap are as big as or even greater than the devastating side of the unemployment experience.
Practical Steps for Staying Positive
Boost your body and mind with exercise
Whatever you do throughout your day seems easier if your trick your mind with happy hormones in your blood.
Plan activities with your children and enjoy the time spent together
Appreciate this gift. Childhood goes quickly!
Develop a detailed contingency plan with your spouse.
Have a goal, a purpose, together. This keeps you working as a team.
Broaden your network of contacts through social media and professional organizations
Let friends, family and professional organizations know that you are looking for a job. Ask for referrals and connections to the organizations that interest you.
Meditate
Envision the life you desire and have an unwavering faith that you will succeed. And remember, this, too, shall pass.
Whether you're spending too much time at the office or taking your stress out on your family, allowing your job to control your life is a slippery slope of misery.