In my history, I saw my dad get more physically fit after a layoff and ‘mental renewal’ than at any other time in his adult life – he still remembers it as ‘when I got fit’.

I’ve found that same thing and more – it’s also a great way to maintain some formality to your schedule, which is important for many at a time when the structure of your day (your job) is gone and you have to provide your own structure, nothing works better than getting up and running! If your world is changing, you may as well be the agent of change yourself.

Also, thank goodness for unemployment funds. I’ve been able to contribute some money towards my living expenses, make minimal payments on my private student loan (harassment from Sallie Mae continues to add to my anxiety)and maintain the cell phone, internet access and post office box that make job hunting and networking possible.

I am now living with friends who will not accept rent money from me; they want me to relax and work on rebuilding my health and lowering my anxiety. Since being with them I have continue to look for work, but have also been able to think more clearly and to engage in activities which have improved my morale greatly. I

1) After doing some research, I have created a new budget and savings plan that I will put into effect when I am re-employed so that I can, hopefully, avoid the financial catastrophe I’m currently experiencing should I again lose my job.

2) I have put money towards a weight loss and fitness regimen. The money I’m spending is worth it, as it is less money than I would spend at a doctor dealing with the health issues caused by poor eating habits and excess weight. I also feel better able to compete in the job market, as there is a very real bias in our society against overweight people.

3) I have spent time working on my hobbies and on artistic endeavors- something I hadn’t done in ages, and which are very relaxing. I am even looking into ways to make money from my work.

4) Now that I am in a more stable environment, I am able to look into volunteer opportunities, which will enable me to network with people in my areas of interest. I have also joined a couple of local groups I’ve found on meetup.com- another networking resource that also offers the opportunity to learn new skills.

I am still anxious about my lack of employment, but this anxiety doesn’t take up 100% of my waking hours any longer.

http://www.wealthalchemist.com/Blog/career-101/

That’s one skill many have never really bothered to even practice. Why else would we be in this global financial crisis.