How to Survive (and Maybe Even Enjoy) Temporary Unemployment

So, you have lost your job. Perhaps your contract ran out, your firm downsized, or your manager realised they could do the job of you with a very smart goldfish. Whatever the reason, you're now unemployed—temporarily, of course. And although the money side of things might be a bit frightening, your sanity is just as vital.

So, here is how to get through this unexpected career hiatus without losing your marbles.

1. Feel the Feelings

It is totally okay to experience a combination of panic, frustration, and existential fear. Spend a day (or two) feeling sorry for yourself, eating an excessive amount of toast, and binge-watching your favourite comfort show. But then it's time to pick yourself up and get back in the saddle—both mentally and career-wise.

2. Reframe the Narrative

Rather than viewing this as a humiliating loss, view it as a plot twist. Every great story requires a moment of adversity before the hero emerges from the ashes. You are merely in your training montage stage. Soon enough, you will be running up metaphorical stairs for your next big thing.

3. Establish a Routine

One of the worst things about losing a job is the feeling of gradually turning into some feral, scruffy version of yourself with no idea what day it is. Fight against this by sticking to a routine. Wake up at a normal hour, take a shower (seriously), and have goals for the day. Having structure in your day serves to keep a sense of purpose.

4. Upgrade Yourself

Make the most of this time. Pick up a new skill, do an online course, revise your CV, or finally learn how to prepare something other than instant noodles. This is your opportunity to come out of unemployment as a stronger, multi-skilled version of yourself.

5. Connect with Humans

It's simple to cut yourself off, but remaining social is important. Catch up with old friends, go to networking events, or just chat with the barista rather than aggressively nodding at them. You never know where opportunities (or free coffee) may arise.

6. Trust the Process

Temporary job loss is just that—temporary. As cliché as it sounds, something better could be on the horizon. Remain proactive, remain positive, and remember: if a goldfish can do your former job, you were most likely overqualified to begin with.

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