[therealstacy]

Several months ago I lost my job. It's been really rough. I don't have much savings and have been relying on my father's generosity. And I get unemployment of course. Thank God for that.

Sometimes I wonder who I am without a job. What am I supposed to do with my time other than look for another job? I enjoy not working since the job had become so stressful. It's easier to keep anxiety at bay now due to decreased stress, and I don't have to wake up at 6 a.m. to drive an hour to work.

Some things I've been doing are reading books about careers and finances, working out, spending time with friends, and loving my cat. But I feel guilty if I don't spend all of my time searching for job openings and emailing resumes.

What do you do with your time if you're unemployed? How do you stay out of the pit of depression?

[ToeJam]

I’ve found it hard being out of work as work provides a distraction from ruminating. Have you considered volunteering? This can provide experience for more desirable jobs in the future. The work I do now started as a voluntary position that then led to a full time position that included qualified training provided by my employer.

[therealstacy]

Originally Posted by ToeJam

I’ve found it hard being out of work as work provides a distraction from ruminating. Have you considered volunteering? This can provide experience for more desirable jobs in the future. The work I do now started as a voluntary position that then led to a full time position that included qualified training provided by my employer.

I can see how ruminating could be a big problem now that I don't have the distraction of work. Actually I've wanted to volunteer but couldn't do it during work hours. I'm going to look into that now that I have all of this extra time! Thanks for your advice.

[bpforever1]

I hear you! I know working is tough, especially with a long commute. I have been out of work and now am working again. I recently found a second job on top of my current job. However, I need to work since my taxes are sky-high. So, I am slaving away. If you don't need to work and have other things to do, then do them! Work does not define you as a person. It's just a means to an end. I work because I have to work and wish sometimes I didn't have to. I would enjoy your time for now. Time is valuable too. I sleep on my downtime so wish I could have more time to do other things. If I had money, I would do as I please. So, I think you are lucky that you have family, a place to live, and food to eat. I would look at your situation with joy and count your blessings.