by Rachel Wood

Created on: April 29, 2009

Being unemployed can be a difficult and depressing time especially if you are unexpectedly laid off. It can be tempting to laze around the house in your pyjamas all day and fall into a routine of getting up late and spending your time watching television. However there are plenty of things you can occupy yourself with when you are out of work.

The most obvious one is to look for another job. Update your CV and make it look as professional as possible. There is plenty of advice around on how to write a good one. Don't forget to enlist the help of family and friends. Browse the internet and look at different job web sites. Make inquiring phone calls to companies you are interested in working for or send out letters. Find out if there are any job fairs coming up in your local area and make the effort to attend. Depending on the type of work you are looking for you may also want to consider making some appointments with employment agencies.

When you are not job hunting consider learning new skills or improving on those you already have. Have a look at courses in your local college. Some last for just a day and if you are out of work you may not have to pay for it. Join your local library and take out books relevant to what you want to learn or search for suitable websites on the internet.

It's important to remember to exercise. You don't need to join an expensive gym, just a daily jog or walk will help keep you fit, clear your head and get you some fresh air and (hopefully) sunshine.

Use the free time to clear out and if needed redecorate your house. It's amazing how quickly clutter builds up and you may even find some items which you can sell on making you a bit of money.

Become a volunteer. There are so many volunteering opportunities around that you are sure to find one that takes your interest. You will be doing something worthwhile as well as meeting new people and getting out of the house. It could even lead onto a permanent job or give you an idea of the type of work you would like to do.

Being unemployed can be very worrying financially but if at all possible allow yourself some time to relax. Do things that you enjoy and spend time with your loved ones. You don't need to spend any money, just visit your family or friends and encourage them to come and see you. You will find another job and before you know it all the free time you had while you were out of work will be gone. Try not to waste it.

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