I was just laid off 2 weeks ago and am right there with you.

I was just laid off 2 weeks ago and am right there with you. I allowed myself those 2 weeks for shock and grief but was still applying for jobs. Week 3: I'm now in strategy/branding mode for myself. My friends have been there for me to uplift me when I get down. I have an amazing therapist who told me she'd work with me for free if I didn't have insurance. I'm trying to create a new daily structure of walking a mile in the morning and taking 2 hours for job search. Exercise is very important for my mood and positivity. I can control what is going on by cleaning. Yes, I clean when I feel out of control. Find a way to make a structure for yourself. Rely upon good friends who uplift you (family doesn't always fit this bill). I have savings and am giving myself a couple months of not working at all. I can substitute teach in Ohio if unemployed by August. It gives me the flexibility to work as a contractor or interview while maintaining income. I'm a single mom so I've had to apply for Medicaid and SNAP (food stamps). I'm not embarrassed to write this because as a mom you've gotta do what you've gotta do to survive and keep your child safe. As people, we deserve this as well.

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  1. Anonymous

    You rock! Great attitude and fantastic plan to thrive. Please keep us posted.

  2. Anonymous

    You absolutely should not be embarrassed and you’re smart to give yourself some time and balance. I took all my stress from working and moved it over to looking for a job, and now I’m even more burnt out than I was. I wish I had followed your plan from the start.

  3. Cecile Marie Giroux

    It sounds like you are a survivor. Good for You! I suggest you also do some networking, to compliment your work search- stay optimistic- you are just in a point of pivot. Take care of You- Be kind to yourself- These programs are there as a bridge to support us when we need them.

  4. Anonymous

    Don't forget, either, that you paid into these programs for years and are just reaping a tiny portion back.
    Also, consider using the local food bank to save some money. In our area, ours provides quite a bit of canned goods plus some fruit and vegetables. This definitely helps the money stretch.

    Meanwhile, you may want to consider working contract or for an agency and post on some of the job boards. Look for some of the general ones such as Indeed, or some of the specialty ones in your area. I posted my resume on "the usual suspects" and ended up getting three interviews that way.

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