While some unemployed are enjoying their vacation from work, the majority are bored, embarrassed, withdrawn, worried and quite frustrated with their nonworking status. If members of your family or friends are unemployed, there are things you can do to keep them motivated and convinced it is not the end of the world. Remember, their pride is hurting. Do not insult or belittle, even to a spouse or child of the unemployed.
- Be a friend. Ask them out to lunch or your place for dinner or a free event (so they don't feel guilty not paying).
- Money is short. Ask if they need a ride somewhere or need something from the store when you go.
- Mail a thinking-of-you card with $20 for gas or food if you are able.
- Offer to keep your ears open for job opportunities.
- Take them a Sunday paper.
- ASK them if there is anything they need.
- Don't forget the children and pets. It is hard on them, too, and they need to know the bad times, household tension, and hard feelings are not their fault. Do something to make them feel extra special.
Maybe you are the one unemployed. Make good use of your free time when you are not looking for a job. Keep active. Help your spouse. Spend quality time with your children and pets. Volunteer at a senior citizens' center at lunch time or the animal shelter.
- Learn something new such as baking, recycling, soapmaking, basketweaving, container gardening, herb gardening, drawing, jewelry making. Tutor at a local grade school.
- Learn to cook from scratch. Avoid processed foods.
- Research resume construction and cover letter writing.
- Sell unwanted items, books, jewelry, etc., on venues such as Bonanza.com. No fees to list, only if you sell.
- Go for long walks. Our bodies are not made to sit in front of a screen all day.
- Place ads on Craigslist for jobs, to sell items, clean houses, run errands, pet sit, do laundry, or honey do's. There are a lot of single women out there who need help with household tasks and repairs (and men).
- Shop at thrift stores where you can find name brand items and clothes, some even new with tags.
These are difficult times for a lot of people. 10% unemployment is a huge problem. Pride gets in the way of our decisions a lot of the times. The unemployed need to know they are still an important part of our lives and we love them. Tomorrow, it could be us.
