A lot has happened in the past couple of weeks. The biggest piece of news is that I’ve joined the ranks of the unemployed. This situation is a mixed blessing – on the one hand, having no income is of course a scary experience. On the other hand, this development will give me more time to explore other ventures.
My feelings can best be summed up as “the possibilities are exciting, the uncertainty is unnerving.” I appreciated the experience at my job, but in many ways, the timing worked out and this was just the push I needed. I am really excited about pursuing other opportunities.
In the first week of unemployment, I’ve applied for UI (still waiting on the paperwork), taken 3 dance classes, cooked a nice sit-down dinner for two, revised my resume, attended an industry event, and planned a trip to New York City (informational interview + friend visit) for September. I’ve also caught up on several loads of laundry, learned to perfectly poach an egg, made cupcakes and frosting, and mastered a complex turn in salsa. Another goal is to do a Couch to 5K program before the end of the year.
During the past week, I’ve also reached out to some people that I’ve met through the blog. These people, who have started off being strangers (but whom now I consider my mentors) have generously taken hours of their time to advise me on career opportunities and review my resume. I am deeply grateful to them.
So as I look down the road to the next 6 months, I’ve feeling little apprehensive, but I’m also invigorated by the sense of possibility. I want to make sure that I take advantage of this period of time in my life – I have more time now, so there’s no excuse not to follow up on some things that I’ve always wanted to do. And on the personal finance front – yes, am I ever glad that I’ve been saving all along.
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This was probably a tough post to write, but I’m glad you did it. You are financially prepared for your job loss, and now you realize that there are bigger and better things out there, and you will realize that this is a blessing in disguise, you just can’t see it yet. Best of luck to you in your job search and your soul search, and I hope you don’t get too busy to post. Reach out to everyone you know, and a great job will turn up. Trust me.
Sorry to hear about the job loss! Definitely take advantage of this time. I hope the best for you.
So sorry to hear about the job loss, but it seems like you are taking it in stride. Good luck to you in whatever you decide to do next!
It sounds like you are doing everything right and have a good attitude about things. I am sorry you are going through this but know that you are inspiring to others in the same situation. Hang in there!
Wow, your attitude about this is positively encouraging! And thank goodness for the savings! You’re very inspiring. =D
I’m sorry to hear about the job loss, but it’s great that you are staying so positive!
Sorry to hear about the job loss. I was laid off a few months ago, and you have just encouraged & inspired me. Doors will open, opportunities will arise. Good luck!!
I’m sorry to hear that. You are right, it is unnerving but also exciting. It means now you can explore new opportunities and possibilities. Last summer I was in the same situation, which eventually led to my current job. I love my current job. Good luck!
I’m so excited to see what this time will bring for you.
Good things, I just know it!!
Wow, i’m sorry to hear about your job loss! But it’s good to take some time for yourself, and it seems like you have all your ducks in a row, so enjoy it while you still can.
And yes, thankfully you’ve saved up for something like this!
I’m sorry to hear about your job loss. But this may be one of the best opportunities to really take time off, regroup and find a better or new path
And with the financial issue off the table, you can have the time & not stress out as badly to do all of that!
Good luck
Sorry you’re unemployed; I know how scary that is, I was laid off last year. But with careful planning you’ll get through it!
When is your NYC trip? Maybe we could meet up for drinks or a run
I am sorry to hear about your job loss. I had to go through this about 1.5 years ago and it’s tough, but you’ll get through it! Just stay positive and don’t stress out.
I’m sorry to hear about it, and I wish you well on whatever is on your plate next. Change is exciting and scary. Love the attitude
PS – you may be way more motivated than me, but when I did the couch to 5k it took me way way way longer than 9 weeks. Just a warning.
You’re positive thoughts will surely lead to success.
Agh! Job loss? Did you know it was coming? Either way, I’m so sorry! Well, you know Revanche–take a cue from her, her net worth is climbing even in the midst of her UI! Plus, she’s gone on some envy-worthy trips! It’s so impressive; I think I’d be a total wreck, no matter how much $$ or prep I did.
You both will weather this and come out of this better than ever, I know it. Are you starting to seriously think about school now?
It sounds like even with the very worrisome event, you are thriving and taking advantage of the extra time. As the Aussies and Kiwis say, Good on you!
so sorry about your job, but you have a great attitude
I’m sorry to hear about this, but I’ll echo the other posters in saying that your attitude will take you far. I was laid off about 8 years ago and ultimately landed on my feet. I know you will do the same. And do enjoy the time off as much as possible!
Good luck! I got laid off in May luckily I found a new job(s) in the new state I moved too. I am from California and no one is hiring there and all my friends are getting laid off who are in their 20s. Keep your head up. Also, do not be afraid to take risks. It is the perfect time! If I did not get laid off, I would not have taken the opportunity to move 3000 miles away from home to some place I always wanted to live.
It sounds like the job loss is something you can financially handle. I hope you will make the best use of your time and resources. Wish you the best of luck with upcoming opportunities.
Blog-friend, to you I say this: Enjoy the heck out of your unemployment! As long as you are financially ok (which I’m pretty sure you are, given your PF skills), live it up…with free/cheap things! I loved my 4.5 months of “funemployment” (once I got past the “oh yeah, I should really get a job” thing). Take walks, visit the library, cook, dance, spend time with friends…I learned things about myself and really had fun!