Coping with Sudden Unemployment in Your Thirties
By: Elizabeth Muasya
Tags: Job Loss, Hope, New Beginnings, Unemployment, Positivity

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

The last year has been full of ups and downs for many people. COVID 19 came and proved to everyone that there is very little under our control. Job cuts became the norm globally and the economic implications are clear. Years of hard work can go down the drain with just one announcement.

Many things are unsettling in life, but losing your job in your thirties hits hard and cold. You were finally getting into a comfort zone and realizing that a few of your ambitions have become a reality. Then the unexpected happens: your boss hands you a termination letter!

It doesn’t matter what reason leads to your unemployment. We all feel the impact and watch with the same horror as our savings diminish over the next couple of months, or even weeks. Well, the good news is you can always start a new chapter in your life.

Here are a few adjustments to make when you receive your benefits and final salary;

Pause and Reflect

People take job losses differently. Some will cry a river while others will take the battle to courts and online communities. Others will shrug it off. Whatever you choose to do, please take your time to reflect. Accept what happened and do what you have to do to get over the disappointment as soon as possible.

Cut Down Unnecessary Expenditure

As much as we dislike changing our lifestyles, the sooner you do it, the better. If you have no job prospects in the near future, consider moving to a cheaper house. Change your kid’s school if you have to. Cut down the list of endless subscriptions. Prepare meals in the home. Do anything that will save money.

Join a Support Group

Moving on after losing a job that you loved is easier said than done. There will be dark days; when all you want to do is keep to yourself. You will doubt yourself and shudder at the thought of not meeting your needs. By joining a support group, you realize that many people share your struggles. You will find new inspiration to keep you going.

Be Your Biggest Fan

In life, we all encounter some patches that are shrouded in self-doubt and judgement. You suddenly regret dropping out in campus. You remember some opportunities you turned down while employed. During such times, remind yourself that if you once found success, you can do it again.

Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash

Find an Alternative Plan

Eventually, you have to accept that life must go on. You must find a way to replace every dollar you spend. This is definitely the hardest part of being unemployed. You might not have adequate capital or the skills you feel you need. Start with whatever you have, no matter how little and watch your efforts pay off in the long run.

Be Patient

Despite having a sure plan and making informed decisions, things might not work out to your expectations. Do not expect to get out of your situation overnight. Whether you choose the freelancer path or get actively involved in business, it is best to remain realistic and patient.

Stay Positive

Positive affirmations will always pay off; no matter the situation. It is easier to face your problems with with hope than letting despair wear you out. Remember that many other people are are worse off and would do anything to trade places with you.

Accept the Changes

Job loss is one thing, the consequences are a different chapter altogether. Friends and former colleagues will stop picking your calls. You might have to sell your car and some of your assets. Accept these changes and learn the lessons that come with them.

Losing a job can feel like rejection and hurt your self-image. Making these adjustments may feel like a lot of work, but the benefits will help you weather uncertainty and keep you focused. Always remember what Albert Einstein said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”