How can I stay positive

United States
September 8, 2012 12:59pm CST
I've been laid off for 4 years and haven't found enough work to keep me employed full time. Part of the problem is that I feel lost. I've worked so hard only to graduate with my bachelors degree two weeks after I was laid off from a job at which I worked at for 8 years. I've spent a lot of time seating and applying and being rejected. I have really excellent qualifications. But I'm feeling less and less motivated as time goes on. Also, very frustrated because my unemployment is affecting my relationship. My boyfriend is fed up with me not working full time. How is everyone else dealing with this?
2 people like this
8 responses
@jricky1 (6800)
• China
9 Sep 12
We encountered ups and downs in our life, so do not feel upset about you. We live in our pride and we have values for this society. Even to make your dream bigger and start to do something to make it nearer. Do not care how your boyfriend feel, just live your own life and fine something to do that you really like.
1 person likes this
• United States
9 Sep 12
Thank you. I have been working on projects that make me feel better. That helps a whole lot. Unfortunately I do care how my boyfriend feels and it is upsetting.
@jenny1015 (13366)
• Philippines
9 Sep 12
I have been in that similar situation and it does make you feel more sorry for yourself. what i did was i searched for jobs online and that made me busy. along with that i pushed myself in putting up a small business both online and offline. I don' t earn that much but it made me sane after not having a job for s couple of years.
1 person likes this
@visavis (5934)
• Philippines
9 Sep 12
In your situation it is natural to think of something not really good. But always think those days that your having and happy, make it that days as jack up or challenge to you to achieve again such days. Everybody having problem and bad situations but always remember you still alive and I'm sure many around you love you and support you in your situation. Like us what we can help is pray that you find a good job for you. Forget the past and try to move on and courage yourself that you will over come such or any bad situation... see you around
@visavis (5934)
• Philippines
9 Sep 12
Welcome and hope my advice will part of your moving on and be always positive in your life... and be strong
• United States
9 Sep 12
Thank you. :)
@Orson_Kart (6108)
• United Kingdom
8 Sep 12
Yes, 4 years appears to be a long time to be without full-time employment. But it's only a problem if you expect full-time employment and what it means to you. Being an artist you must know that those in such a profession are not working full-time in the sense that the rest of us mean. Artists often have sabbaticals, or are 'resting' in between projects. Why not see yourself as 'resting' and waiting for the right inspiration to throw yourself full-time into your next project. Your boyfriend should be more understanding and supportive and may regret his treatment of you once you become a world renown artist. Keep your chin up!
• United States
9 Sep 12
Thank you for that. He will regret his treatment of me once everything kicks in and I make it. However, I know I would make it a lot quicker with his support.
@verolop29 (1096)
• United States
9 Sep 12
Easier said than done! I have been working for a month and I tell my husband he should start looking too since I only work less than 30hours a week and he's filled out tons of paperwork and resumes that I think he's discouraged because all he gets is one interview and that's all. I'm eager to start doing something I love LOVE but how can I? I have asked around here and offered to do it for free but it just doesn't work. I'm not going to give up! And neither should u! One of these days all ur effort will pay off. Hold ur head up high and keep going for that dream job and I think that's better than sitting by the phone and waiting for that call..right? Anyways I hope and pray to God that something comes up for the both of us!! Good luck
1 person likes this
@shivanisd (387)
• India
8 Sep 12
Hi, I know how you feel Im in the same boat. Im so fed up of being rejected that I dont even want to try anymore. In the meantime I spend a lot of time on survey sites and tasks site which earn me some money so I dont feel completely useless. Also Im trying to work on my writing skills. If it doesnt work out then I guess Ill have to go back to 9 to 5. The previous job I worked, I hated it...it was mind- numbing and soul crushing. Im sure it will all work out for us. Since you are a creative artist you have the option of freelance work...maybe you can parlay that into a full time job..? Good luck to you!
• United States
8 Sep 12
Thank you for your comment. I know what you mean about soul crushing. I try to look at this time as a time for me to reinvent myself. On some levels it helps.
• United States
9 Sep 12
Okay. I need more information. What job were you laid off from? What kind of BA did you earn? Don't give up. I wonder if it might be your resume? Look it over, update it if you need to, and have a load of references with you and sorted out according to what will apply to what job. Also, do you know a lot of people? Don't be afraid to talk to your friends and family and ask them if anyone is hiring anywhere and if they can put in a good word for you? My boyfriend doesn't have a degree, and he was unemployed for years, and he recently got a job. He will only have this one for a month, but it's something. He got it through a friend of his mother's who knew people at the place where he is working. I know that you want permanent jobs, but don't be afraid to take what you can get. I had a job this last summer. It was only for six weeks, but again, it was a job. I have a Bachelor of the Arts Degree in English-Literature and Language, and I am currently working on my Master of the Arts in English-Rhetoric and Composition, Literature and TESL. I have had to go through many jobs over the years, but I take what I can get. It can be a bit discouraging at times, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
@cutepenguin (6431)
• Canada
9 Sep 12
This must be very frustrating for you. I am just pulling things together with multiple part time jobs and I am lucky to get these - I've met so many people without jobs. My jobs do require a certain amount of skill so it is lucky that you got your bachelor's degree.