You've just been let go of your job. You're in shock. It wasn't your fault. Your position was eliminated because of budget cuts, the company is closing, there are hundreds of reasons but none of them are you. So
what do you do now?
First,
File for unemployment.
Each state is different, but the first thing you need to do is file for your unemployment benefits. I know it's the last thing you want to do - but get it done and out of the way. You can typically apply online or by phone. For Texas users, don't forget to request your pay every two weeks! (I learned that one the hard way)
Now,
File for unemployment.
Each state is different, but the first thing you need to do is file for your unemployment benefits. I know it's the last thing you want to do - but get it done and out of the way. You can typically apply online or by phone. For Texas users, don't forget to request your pay every two weeks! (I learned that one the hard way)
Now,
Let yourself feel the hurt and loss. Your income and that sense of financial security has been snatched from you within the blink of an eye. While the first few days consisted of me balling my eyes out, having panic attacks, and trying to comprehend what just happened, I eventually started binge watching new shows on Netflix, sleeping in, going out for lunch, eating away from a computer/desk and trying out new recipes at home. Being forced out of a workplace really made me reevaluate what I needed and wanted from a job, other than an income.
The job I had for what was a short but valuable 6 months, doesn't necessarily mean it was my dream job... now I realize. I sure did love my job because I was finally creating content. Your search for the next job is going to be rough. You're going to look for the 'perfect' job, where you have a laid back schedule, great pay, benefits, paid time off, and so on.
As soon as you don't have a choice and need to find a new place of employment, you do make compromises on pay, the type of position you're looking for, and even the location. This forces you to apply to positions you wouldn't have thought of before - it forces you out of your comfort zone. Embrace it. Brush up your resume, go to networking events, reach out to your professional network. You can do it.
Pick up a hobby. That book you've been wanting to read? No more excuses, that movie list on Netflix? You have the time, oh that new coffee shop around the corner? Or maybe that seminar at the book store on weekday evening. I've attempted my hand at calligraphy and although it's stressful it's been fun. It's okay to have no structure, but sometimes you will crave the structure. Let life happen, and don't be afraid to eventually create a schedule - it'll help you feel better that you're making progress. Just make sure you set a goal to apply to a certain number of jobs per day!
You are not defined by your eight-to-five. This definitely took my a while to grasp, and to be honest I still struggle. Hi, I'm Aishah....I like coffee, fashion, and have an unhealthy obsession with shoes? How do I introduce myself without having a job. I have been putting so much pressure on myself to be this perfect businesswoman and have life figured out. Well guess what - life had other plans for you! While what I did Monday-Friday did add value to my life, it did not and never will define it. Yes, I want to enjoy what I do but there is more to me and life than my resume.
If you're reading this an you're at the bottomless pit of the darkness, feel as if you've fallen down and can't get up, as if you've failed, you're not good enough (but you are), I'm sorry. I know how hard this time is, and it will continue to be. But trust me, something even better is coming and it will take time. Eventually this will be nothing but a small bump in your life and career, it will make crying in your closet all worth it.
The job I had for what was a short but valuable 6 months, doesn't necessarily mean it was my dream job... now I realize. I sure did love my job because I was finally creating content. Your search for the next job is going to be rough. You're going to look for the 'perfect' job, where you have a laid back schedule, great pay, benefits, paid time off, and so on.
As soon as you don't have a choice and need to find a new place of employment, you do make compromises on pay, the type of position you're looking for, and even the location. This forces you to apply to positions you wouldn't have thought of before - it forces you out of your comfort zone. Embrace it. Brush up your resume, go to networking events, reach out to your professional network. You can do it.
Pick up a hobby. That book you've been wanting to read? No more excuses, that movie list on Netflix? You have the time, oh that new coffee shop around the corner? Or maybe that seminar at the book store on weekday evening. I've attempted my hand at calligraphy and although it's stressful it's been fun. It's okay to have no structure, but sometimes you will crave the structure. Let life happen, and don't be afraid to eventually create a schedule - it'll help you feel better that you're making progress. Just make sure you set a goal to apply to a certain number of jobs per day!
You are not defined by your eight-to-five. This definitely took my a while to grasp, and to be honest I still struggle. Hi, I'm Aishah....I like coffee, fashion, and have an unhealthy obsession with shoes? How do I introduce myself without having a job. I have been putting so much pressure on myself to be this perfect businesswoman and have life figured out. Well guess what - life had other plans for you! While what I did Monday-Friday did add value to my life, it did not and never will define it. Yes, I want to enjoy what I do but there is more to me and life than my resume.
If you're reading this an you're at the bottomless pit of the darkness, feel as if you've fallen down and can't get up, as if you've failed, you're not good enough (but you are), I'm sorry. I know how hard this time is, and it will continue to be. But trust me, something even better is coming and it will take time. Eventually this will be nothing but a small bump in your life and career, it will make crying in your closet all worth it.
This is so beautifully written. You are so right. Your job doesn’t define you. I am also glad you are doing something you love - content creation. So proud of you!
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