This Too Shall Pass: 6 Tips On Surviving Unemployment

This is not the end of the world! I figured I would start with that introductions because whether you recently loss your job, your contract has ended, looking for another freelance opportunity, or are about to quit your job without another one lined up it can sure feel that way. I'm glad you're here! I too am in the precarious position of not having a job right now and well, I'm in this weird space of anxious, but hopeful. I've been here a time or two and I feel confident in the tips I'm going to share with you. This is your time to clean up your resume, stalk Indeed and LinkedIn, network, and be ready when the opportunity comes knocking, and yes it will come.

When you chose to leave your employment (either voluntarily or involuntarily), the first thing you probably thought about was "how the heck am I going to pay my bills?" Unfortunately bills don't know what the word unemployed means, so it's up to us to create a plan and execute accordingly. I don't want you to feel sorry for yourself day in and day out, so I encourage you to read on.

1- Do NOT add any extra debt

This seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised. This is not the time to shop for cars, houses, boats, investing, moving, co-signing, upgrading a cell phone, signing up for memberships, getting a student loan, etc. This is the time to manage the money (or lack thereof in some instances) that you already have. Every dollar counts...literally. If you're already stressed out, then adding anything new will only add on more stress. At this time, we are not in the market to purchase anything! Which brings me to my next tip...

2- Reduce spending to the necessities

This is my struggle. When I want something, all of a sudden it's a necessity. I would like to tell you what your necessities are, but I can't. Everyone's situation is different, but please be reasonable. You will of course budget for food, shelter, utilities, gas, and insurance. Some people have to budget for child care, some for prescription fees, but whatever it is, make sure it's what you can't live without! Gas for your car= yes, manicure and pedicure= no.

3- Prepare your food at home

This is also my struggle. Actually this whole list is my struggle, which is why I'm writing about it lol! If you were to take a look at your bank statement, would you see more dining out and fast food transactions than anything else? I know I would. I get it; it's super convenient to go through the drive through or order takeout, but say it with me: I. don't. got. it. like. that. So much money can be saved when you prepare your meals at home. You don't have to cook elaborate meals! You can start with sandwiches, cereal, noodles, bake some chicken, grab a few frozen dinners, make casseroles, or get creative and hop on Pinterest for some cheap and easy recipes. Trust me, we all eat out way too much. Just check your bank statement and let me know if I'm wrong.

4- Say no to outings

Who wants to be the lame that turns down every invitation to go out? I don't either, but you have to do what you have to do. Confession: I recently went on a family vacation that I had no business going on. I had the money, but that money would've been better for now while I'm in between jobs. It's hard to enjoy yourself when you know you have limited funds, but continuous expenses. It won't always be this way. You won't always turn down family and/or friend outings. This is temporary.

5- Get moving

Yes, exercise! It's so weird to see that on the list, but trust me it helps. This can be a stressful time and it's nice to have an outlet to blow off some steam. Go for walk everyday, swim, hike, or bike. It doesn't matter what exercise you choose, but do something so that you're not always thinking of your financial and job situation. Who knows, you may come up with some great ideas while you're doing that kickboxing routine.

6- Keep the faith and stay encouraged

The bad news: it's going to be challenging. The good news: it will end and you will be back to work in no time. There are so many people going through what you're going through right now or have already made it to the other side. During this time you will need to tune out the people that try to distract you or make fun of what you're doing/going through. Everything on TV, the radio, and social media is encouraging us to buy something or go into debt. Dave Ramsey's podcast is how I stay motivated. He's pretty much an expert on all things financial and has helped tons of people get out of debt and stay out of debt. He even has a couple of podcast where he talks directly to the unemployed. His podcast is available for iPhone and Android users, so download it asap! You can also check out his website here for blog posts and financial resources. I also follow @bkfuniversity on Instagram. He posts amazing content on financial literacy, specifically for minorities.

My last tip would be to surround yourself with friends and family that are praying for you. I've been blessed to have family and friends that email me job leads and introduce me to people that know people. Share how you feel about this time in your life to those you trust. They will listen and encourage you to hang in there. My mom just called me to come hang out with her this afternoon because she knows how easy it is to get down on yourself and start having a pity party. This season of being in between jobs or wanting to switch jobs can be very stressful. These are just a few things that I've learned over the years since this is not my first time being in between jobs. Your situation will change, you will get that job that you want, and you will not lose your possessions. Me being in this situation before has taught me to spend wisely. Now, with that being said, I'll be back, gotta go take my own advice.