You think you found it. That perfect job. Well in this economy it’s probably the perfect job for now. It’s reliable. It pays the bills, and it gets you out of the house. It may not have the piercing 401K you passed up last year, but nothing is sexier than a steady paycheck. But how do you know if it’s meant to be and this isn’t another mistake that leaves you penniless, unemployed and back on EDD?
Timing: Any job can look very satisfying if you’ve been on unemployment for a lengthy period of time. Thoughts of fresh fruits and vegetables dance in your head during the interview as you nod enthusiastically about how you’ve always been passionate about bubble wrap. No one is here to judge but think about the timing. What do you want out of your next job? Do you want Mr. Job-Right-Now or Mr. New-Potential-Career-Job? I’m the first to admit that unemployment is the poison apple of the mind. As soon as you take that bite and fall under its spell you wait for Prince Job to come along on a white horse and carry you away to the magical land of paying bills on time. However fairy tales don’t last and it’s a scary economy right now. Go into the interviews smart and prepared. Create a list of what is most important: money, career, happiness, family or food. And see if the Mr. Job your meeting with fits with your goals. It’s all in the timing.
No Scrub:You know the kind of job that’s hanging around and isn’t offering you anything besides a paltry paycheck. It’s more than likely not enough to live off of, but you think it’s the only thing you can get. Wrong. Step away from the scrub and re-evaluate your goals. Have confidence in your worth and know that a position exists that leads to growth and avoid the ones that will leave you stunted, unhappy and back in line for EDD faster than it takes TLC to call Mr. Temporary a scrub.
Addiction: Unemployment has its own identity. Like your Mr. Job before, your Mr. Unemployment offers his own sense of security. Just ask the other millions of people that are also seeing him right now. Being addicted to the feeling of hopelessness and fear of change is something you need to get over. Own what you’re most afraid of and face it. Don’t be afraid to take in a new opportunity just because it feels different than anything you’ve done before. We all know it’s scary but be confident in you. Your new Mr. Job will understand.
It’s a tough time. No one is here to judge you based on what you decide. Just know behind every rejection is another possibility. Whether or not this is your time in the land of unemployment you now know you can survive it. Don’t be afraid of change and if the shoe fits, take the job and ride away on the horse.
