How to Make Positive Changes in Your Life When Youre Unemployed - CareerEnlightenment.com

Creative OutletsAs we get caught up in going through the motions of life we often forget about our creative passions. It could be writing, painting, or learning to play a musical instrument. Putting some of your time into a creative outlet when you’re unemployed will not only give you a sense that you’re doing something productive, but also a sense of fulfillment.Self ImprovementSearching for a job can be demoralizing.   If we’re not careful the mindset it puts us in can start to impact every other element of our lives.   However investing our time in reading motivational books or blogs and listening to self help tapes can play a major role in maintaing a powerful mindset in the face of a challenging circumstances in your life.Why You Shouldn’t Spend All Your Time Looking for a JobMany people do nothing other than look for their next job when they’re unemployed, even though they have all the time in the world. This is not only depressing and ineffective, but incredibly bori ng and does nothing to improve the quality of your life. It’s possible that you could might be unemployed for an extended period of time and if your future employer asks what you did for the last several months, your time would be better spent developing the kinds of skills that would prepare you for your next job than just searching for it.The most difficult element of not having a job is not making money. But, it doesn’t mean you have to give up other things in your life.   We’re driven by the desire to achieve, connect with other people, and have influence and respect. Just because you don’t have a job it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do those things. Those are the things that are going to drive you. So, you do them and don’t make any money. That’s better than not doing them and not making any money.   Don’t let the fact that you are unemployed infect every other element. Peter Bregman, HBS.org ContributorUnemployment can be an absolute blessing in disguise if you see it as opportunity rather than adversity. The key is to take action towards the things that could improve your life.