Recently lost my job. Not feeling good

[Momsspagetti]

I lost my job 4 weeks ago. I was told I was making mistakes and that they decided not to continue my employment.

i left another job for this one.

its been 4 weeks now I have had 2 interviews. 1 for a job that I didn’t want but I need a job.

i feel useless. I am bored. I don’t know what else to do.

[grt123]

Hi. Clearly you know how to get jobs - so be assured that this hiatus won't be of long duration. Why not use this time constructively. Get a few things happening in your life to put back your mojo. I don't know what you like to do, but whatever it is, do more!

[geoff]

Hi Momsspagetti, and I'm also sorry you have lost your job, but pleased you have posted your thread.

Are you able to update your resume, there maybe points you have benefited from and any issues you may want to brush up on, and please don't take this as any fault of yours.

The company you were with maybe downsizing and only making these comments just as a reason to let you go, so it's not your error.

You may not want to talk about this to anyone but it could help if you feel like going to your doctor, these people can be 'bouncing boards' as they say, in other words, just to get their opinion.

In the meantime, you could apply for benefits from Centrelink and make sure the previous employer gives you a 'letter of separation'.

Best wishes.

Geoff.

[LesDave]

I just finished 6 months out of work. It's been tough. I am no expert but this is what I did. I am about to start a new job next Tuesday after nearly 1000 applications.

1. In the middle of this I decided that part of my problem was spending the past 20 years numbed on anti depressants. I was unaware of my own lack of empathy. I started to slowly get off the medicine 2 years ago but finally went cold turkey in January. It was a bit of a tough month in February, but I am through it. The major issue I have is to remind myself I am just having a blue day. This is what most people feel like.

2. Don't beat yourself for feeling down without a job. You have an external pressure affecting you, that's NOT depression. Anyone would feel down losing their job, so don't feel bad about it.

3. Take back your power. Don't let others be responsible for making you happy. You OWN your own mind and your own life.

4. You are NOT your job. Your job is simply a means to get money. You do however need to have a life away from work. Right now is the right time to think about what that life should be like.

5. Connect connect connect. Make constant connections with people, even volunteer. Just get OUT OF THE HOUSE.

6. Get fit. I walk 70kms a week now. I have lost lots of weight and I eat very basic whole foods. No more crap, no more takeaway. When the weight starts to come off and you see yourself in the mirror it builds your confidence.

7. Stay in the present moment. Walking is good practice. When you have thoughts mulling around in your head bring yourself to the right here right now. When your mind wanders make a game out of car number plates, or examine your own mood or feelings, feel the weather, the smells and the sights.

8. Acknowledge the thoughts that come into your head, "I notice I am having thoughts about losing my job. These thoughts can stay in my head but I'm not going to argue with you" and then bring yourself back to the present moment. Don't start fights with people in your head. Also, don't waste time dreaming up some ideal future. It just makes you miserable because it isn't feasible.

9. For the job. Here's the fact. Most of us get jobs because of someone we know. If you don't know someone, I suggest you join a volunteer group or a social club and 'give back'. People see this and are more likely to give you a leg up.