One of the things I love about being a career counselor is what I learn from my clients. They are constantly 'teaching' me something. Take last week, for example. My client was talking about people who lose their jobs (he had just lost his). He offered..."tell me who your friends are and then you'll know who you are." I have been thinking about his words since he said them. Do you agree with them? Do you disagree? What does that 'saying' mean to you?
Another client said this is how she has been getting through a 'challenging' period of unemployment..."moping, coping, hoping" and that she has been dealing with a lot of the 'd' words...."depression, dejection, dismay, discouragement, despair, disappointment", etc. I have also been thinking about what she said. Moping -- when you're feeling really sorry for yourself and not much seems to be happening and/or working. (I remember when I lost my job -- one of my mentors told me to have a major "Pity Party" and be done with it already). I don't recall having a party; I do recall how seriously I took his remark. Coping -- when you say I've got to do something, anything that is healthy and constructive to help me 'manage' this period of transition. Moving from moping to coping...that's a big deal and a big step. What one thing can you do, starting today, to help yourself migrate from moping to coping?
Coping -- and getting on. Getting on with it. Letting go of that. Hoping for the best. Hoping that it won't be long until you land a new job or take the first steps to starting your own business. Hoping that the economy will turn a corner. Hoping that you're doing most of the right things. Hoping that someone will notice. Hoping that you can get a good night's rest. Hoping that someone will value your credentials, your resume, your wonderful talent and positive attitude. Hoping that today might be the day...
I can totally relate. Some days I have to literally speak out loud words to myself to get out of the funkiness! I'm starting over in all areas of my life, (education, career, left a bad relationship...) so at least I don't have fear losing anything! I've already lost it!!
All I know is I have faith that I'm being stripped down to nothing to become something so much better (at 45)...No car, I ride a bike, walk, or take the bus. I buy my clothes from thrift stores and can't believe the finds I get for almost nothing! Volunteering at AIDS Community Resources as saved my sanity. I WILL GET THROUGH THIS! I say over and over when I feel like giving up. Then I go for a walk...now that is the best...it will totally change your mood!
Posted by: Karen Hinson | March 11, 2010 at 02:56 PM
Karen, I hope job seekers learn from your words posted here, especially "I WILL GET THROUGH THIS!" Thanks so very much for your thoughts.
-- Billie
Posted by: billiesucher | March 11, 2010 at 06:25 PM