Waiting Wisdom

By Tracy Schruder

Use your waiting time wisely. I was inspired to write this blog because I recently read a study on youth unemployment and the devastating effects that it is having on mental health.

Some young people are experiencing feelings of hopelessness and it’s leading to depression and anxiety.

As far as understanding and relating to this debacle, I am doing my best. I never had trouble finding a job and have been extremely blessed when it comes to employment. However, I have experienced a time in my life when I was unemployed.

I had too much time on my hands and I could have easily slipped into the unconscious victim mentality but I didn’t. It wasn’t because I had support or people around me that helped me avoid the funk of it all. No, it was because I took responsibility for my own well being and made the right choices to survive this lull in my career.

There’s only one way out of the destructive mindset, of being unemployed and that’s to turn inward. Journaling is the best most productive part of changing your mindset on the topic because it gives you the opportunity to create your own script about your life.

Lined white paper and a blue pen works best. Through journaling you can discover many things about yourself that you did not know.

Regardless of your mood, set the intention to focus mainly on the positive aspects of yourself. Write about what you really want to do. Map out a plan and get your feet on the ground. Spending time in the internet searching for work should be a last resort. print off or type out a few pages of your best resume (don’t worry about being perfect- honesty is the best policy) and compose a list of desired employers.

Don’t only focus on the companies that are hiring but keep your options open and apply with companies that you want to work for. Seek out and take online classes both free and the ones that cost money.

You will not benefit more from an investment than the investment you put into yourself. Use your waiting time wisely- what have you always wanted to do? What dreams do you have for your career and future? Focus on that and you will see doors open and you will find employment beyond your dreams.

Another little piece of advice is to exercise and move your body and meditate daily, this is a vital key in building your self confidence.

In conclusion, if you use your waiting time wisely, you will be better prepared to take action when opportunities present themselves.