Lost my job last week...

Ok, so I knew it was coming for a little while, but it was still quite a surprise. I am now trying to get myself out the emotional funk I've been in since last week. My company set me up with an outplacement company and gave me an ok severance, so I know they are trying to help me out.

I tried biking but biking just leaves you with your thoughts and I end up feeling worse than when I started out. I am currently working a temp job for a friend's family's law firm until I find something permanent or they find someone permanent to fill their empty position.

I need to get out of this funk. I'm having a hard time getting motivated to update my resume and even get it out there. I have a feeling that I will not be able to stay in my current location and that a big move is inevitable. My fiance is doing really well in his job and it's pretty secure at the moment. I'm just not sure what to do... He is very open to moving if I find a job. He's an engineer and can do his job anywhere. The problem is that he starts again at the bottom of the totem pole and is more likely to be laid off/let go since he's the new guy. We are then back to square one...

I'm so confused and I just don't know what to do...

So sorry to hear about your job!

Sounds like you need to brainstorm / mindstorm... work your way through this to find out your next life phase. You know? In a way, it can be an opportunity to be bold and try something new.

What do you want to do?

Were you happy in your job? Why? Why not?

What is your passion?

Think about it. Do some doodling. Don't worry about your resume just yet. You need to reassess. There are some really good books in the library about this... start reading and doodling and mapping your new future.

And don't forget to ride because riding really does help. Even if just a little bit every day. ;)

(((I'm sorry, Andrea)))

Don't panic. It sounds like your bf has stability, and you already found a temp job, so you're going to be okay. You're also very creative, so I know you'll find an even better job soon.

(((((((Andrea)))))))

How much time do you figure you have, before you really need to have a job?

One of the best things I ever did in my life was to take off solo on my first bike tour when I'd been laid off. Like you, I knew it was coming, but still I was an emotional wreck. It was the cumulative stress of living under the sword of Damocles that finally came to a head with knowing I was going to be one of the ones out of a job. I kind of had a plan for the long term - it was the short term that was a bit of problem. But I just rode for two weeks and came back a new person physically and mentally.

If you don't have that kind of time, this might sound unkind, but challenge yourself more when you ride. If there's room in your head for obsessive thoughts, there's room to be working harder. Do intervals. Do hill repeats. Take it to the place where you can't think about anything but your body, and you will start to feel better.

And, one thing at a time. Don't obsess about whether you might have to move, and if so, where (in any case, as you know, there's not a lot of room for that in this economy). Get your resume out there, apply anywhere that you think you could tolerate living, and worry about the move if and when it's time.

Good luck. Hang in there!

Andrea:

You are not jobless. You have two jobs:
- a temporary one that helps pay bills, and
- a permanent one that is looking for another job.

You job now is finding a job. Don't let your boss down;)

Andrea - so sorry to hear about the job loss (hugs). I love Mr. Silvers comment about not letting your boss down:p

I have been downsized twice in the last year and wasn't given a severence either time. So that with your temp job puts you way ahead of lots of people.

I hear you on the bike time thing. You'd think I'd be biking every day but it just reinforces that I'm by myself and I get to think about it. Do what you can and ENJOY it! Take pleasure in the little things while you can. Catch up with friends and family and network with everyone you talk to. Don't isolate yourself even when you feel like it. Stay active and in a routine and it will happen for you - that door will open when you least expect it!

I love TE! Everyone's so supportive.

Mr. Silver, you are right... My former employer set me up with an outplacement company and I have a meeting with them tomorrow night. I have everything completed that they gave me to have done for that meeting.

Oakleaf- I have about a month and half before the $$ runs out completely and I have to start tapping into the retirement accounts... I have to stay busy though or I would go crazy... I'm trying not to obsess over moving but I can honestly say there is nothing here available in my field, so a move is probably inevitable...

indigoiis- the outplacement company is helping me get through all of those questions, so I truly am on the right track. I just hate the not knowing and the waiting game.

Thanks for everyone's support. I'll keep you updated on my progress

No advice, but lots of wishes for good luck. This economy is tough on everybody, but I'm sure you will be okay.

Pam

Good luck.

what great advice here. I love this community, too.

Good luck finding the perfect job for you. I really hope it comes along soon (although two weeks on a cycling tour sounds like bliss to me, too).

Roxy