There are so many people who are unemployed looking for work these days. You’ve heard this before, but it’s true: we live in unprecedented times. Pew Research Center shares, “Even amid signs of improvement in the U.S. labor market overall, about four-in-ten unemployed workers had been out of work for more than six months in February 2021”
Many of us are still in pandemic recovery mode, and many more have had to leave jobs and say goodbye to industries we love. These have been challenging times, but society has also seen a spur in creativity. We are seeing a huge influx of new entrepreneurs, and lots of people are acquiring new skills or going back to school to change careers and follow their passion.
For those who are still unemployed, you are not alone! It is easy to fall into a trap of negative thinking when we are faced with this type of challenge, especially if you’ve been unemployed for a while. But, where there is a will, there is a way! Let’s take what makes you AWESOME and turn it into your career. Let’s talk about changing your mindset and expanding your skills.
Job Loss, Or Chance at a New Career?
When we are backed into a corner, it’s an opportunity to freeze or take action. The pandemic had us all frozen for a while. But now is the time to take action! As you begin to take action, you are able to let go of what was and tune into what can be. But it all begins with YOU shifting the narrative from ‘job loss’ to ‘opportunity for a new career.’ Here are a few simple starters to get you thinking differently about getting a new job, and start feeling like the AWESOME person that you are!
- Journaling
One of the best ways to discover some of your hidden talents and dreams is through journaling and, no, you do not need to be a good writer to do this. Even doodles, lists, and sketching works. This process is about getting to know yourself better without restrictions or guidelines; flow through the process.
To focus your journaling on career growth, make it a priority. Plan to write for 10-20 minutes every day about your best possible future self. Think about big goals and how you want to grow. Then, journal yourself a roadmap and don’t hold back your inner desires!
- Try Something New
When was the last time you tried something new? Get out there and start something new, judgment free. This is where the magic happens! If you are unemployed and looking for work, apply this same thinking when looking at new industries. One new opportunity that you overlooked before could be the answer you’ve been looking for. If it’s not the right fit, keep going and gather new skills along the way. You got this!
- Podcasts
I gave up music for one year and replaced it with podcasts. And you know what? — I learned SO MUCH. You have brilliant content at your disposal to learn new topics and build ideas. Podcasts can be informative, motivational, and powerful – all things you need to start a new career. From podcasts, you can discover so much about yourself and the world around you. You never know what piece of wisdom can lead you out of unemployment.
Unemployed, Looking for Work
Sometimes it takes a plan to organize our thoughts into action, and I am here to help! You can view this unemployment period as a career loss, or a gift of time to discover what you really want to do with your life. If you are actively looking for your dream job and need help making your resume stand out, check out my latest resume course here.