1. I am responsible for my situation. Unlike politicians, I am unable to blame the “other” party for my financial or employment situation. I am responsible for my choices, and I do not expect my employer to “bail me out”.
2. Do not expect loyalty to count for much. It doesn’t matter how long I’ve worked for my employer. If economics dictate that I need to take a pay cut or that my position needs to be eliminated due to these economic factors, so be it. In other words, “Don’t take it personal, it’s just business.”
3. Expect a lifestyle change. If my pay is going to be reduced, or I am laid off, my lifestyle will have to change. I used to go out to dinner about twice a month and treat myself to a massage once a month. Now I am taking this time to better my culinary skills at home, and a hot shower will have to suffice for the massage. I consider this lifestyle change temporary, as I expect things to get better for all of us.
4. Have or create a financial plan. It’s extremely important now to know where my money is going. Any extra funds should go to paying off debt. I recommend reading or listening to Dave Ramsey – the man has been dead broke – and knows what it’s like to be financially strapped, and what it means to find financial peace.
5. Explore new opportunities. Take this time to reflect on what is working in your life. If you need (or would like) to make a change in your life, now may be the time to explore that opportunity. It could mean going back to school, learning a new hobby, or in my case, trying my hand at writing.
6. Commit to helping others. There is enough doom and gloom being broadcast to us everyday. It would be easy for me to adopt a “look out for number one” attitude. I believe that by helping others, I will expand my horizons and perhaps open a door for a new opportunity. We need to count on each other to help get through this time.
7. Don’t be afraid (or too proud) to ask for help. I have been guilty of this in the past. I thought it was a sign of weakness to ask for help. I have learned that it takes a strong person to realize and acknowledge that sometimes I need assistance.
8. Don’t stay angry. I’m only human. It’s natural to get upset with a pay reduction or layoff. However, if I stay angry I believe that I blind myself to new opportunities (like a new job). Besides, no one likes to be around a person with an agenda against the world.
9. Keep your sense of humor. Sometimes I just have to take a mental step back and laugh at my situation. How the heck did I (we) get here?! I still enjoy going to movies, reading books and having fun with friends because I like to laugh and I follow Truth # 8.
10. Have faith. I believe that when God closes one door, He opens another. I have faith that I will be led down the right path and that I will survive this situation. For those that lack faith – I recommend you explore your heart, because it’s easier to let someone else shoulder the load, and God has pretty big shoulders. To quote Joseph Dunninger, “For those that believe, no explanation is necessary; for those who do not believe, none will suffice.”
