Millions of Americans have been out of work for more then a year. Being unemployed is a discouraging and depressing situation. I know. I was out of work for nine months in 2002. I questioned my self worth and wonder if things would ever change. They can and will, but you may need to take a different approach. Here are some things to consider:

• Don’t hang out at home in your PJ’s or sweats. Get up at a regular work time and get ready to face the world. This will prevent you from forming depressive habits of low self worth.

• Find someone to partner with. It is true that two heads are much better then one. Having a partner can help keep both of you on the right track. You will gain strength and encouragement from each other as long as it does not evolve into a pity party.

• Sharpen your skills. Read articles and books to stay abreast of changes in your industry. Keeping your mind fresh and alert will fight off depression.

• Volunteer and help others. This will help take your focus off yourself and it can provide opportunities for joy in your life.

• Attend business-networking meetings. Search for Chamber of Commerce meetings or Trade Association meetings. You can visit at no charge for up to 3 times each organization. There are hundreds of networking meetings listed on line. Go meet new contacts. This is much better then sending resumes from home.

• Consider starting your own business. Downsizing has left companies needing services on an as needed basis. Discover if there is a need for your skills. Call and survey companies. You may find a new way to make more money then your old job paid. You can typically charge twice as much as you were making as an employee, but don’t forget that you will need to pay taxes on your new found income.

• Exercise. You don’t need to join a gym. Do push ups, crunches, walk around your neighborhood or beat your pillow with a broomstick. You need something to relieve your frustration and anger.

Ken Bear Cole

A Second Look Business Consulting LLC

It seems like the news is worse with each passing day…More layoffs, plants going idol for three or more months, unemployment hitting all time highs in our state–what is a small business owner to do?  To quote the great philosopher, Bobby McFerrin, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.”

Bobby said, “In every life we have some trouble, when you worry you make it double.”

Time to focus on tomorrow and assume ALL responsibility for your success (or failure).  Relying on Uncle Sam is not a good business strategy.  If you are unemployed, consider starting your own business.  If your business is slacking, increase your marketing effort.  If you are under staffed, accept reality (for a while) and work more hours.

The message is work smarter AND harder.  There are many FREE or low cost opportunities for you to market yourself and your business.  Twitter, does not cost a dime and (with a large enough following) does help bring more traffic to your website.

If you are a job seeker, being on Twitter or writing a blog can get your name higher on the search engines and when a prospective employer does a search for what you’ve written or done online, your unique ideas and positive attitude shows up HIGH on the list.

If you are over worked, then bring in a consultant or personal assistant.  Freeing your time from less productive tasks allows you to focus on more profitable activities.

Remove the following words from your vocabulary:  Can’t and Impossible

Stop watching the daily news.  Spend time each week with someone who has a positive attitude.  The cost of coffee and time with such a person will pay off in spades!

Ed Bejarana
BusinessBlogging.net
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