by Benjamin Lomax

Created on: January 06, 2008   Last Updated: October 02, 2009

Being unemployed in tough economic times like the present can be a scary time, particularly with bills to pay and a family to support. But the silver lining in the cloud is that you have a lot of spare time on your hands. Use it! Remember that not having a job doesn't mean you shouldn't be working. But what should you be working on?

First you should take this opportunity to look long and hard at yourself, where you are going and what you are going to do with your life. Being unemployed is a great opportunity for self-analysis. Remember that the richest and most successful people in this world do what they love. Because they love it, they are great at it. Because they are great at it, they are well compensated.

Find out what you would love to do, what would fulfill you, and do the hard work that is necessary to get a job doing just that. If that means student loans for a technical certificate, an apprenticeship, or getting your contractor's license, check into it. You will be surprised to find that what you do as a hobby has professionals every day getting paid to do the same thing.

For many this means going back to school. For some it is vocational training, for some it is an internship, but it was and is all about getting qualified to do something bigger and better. It's a well known fact that a degree provides roughly 150% to 200% income, but a related fact is that many great opportunities for employment do have doors that are not open to the general public who lack this vital piece of paper.

But what about paying the bills now? Do not despair, now that you have uncovered your plan to make a better life, check into working while you are getting qualified for your real goal. In many cases those getting qualifications can work in their chosen field as long as they provide proof they are undergoing training (and are willing to accept less pay). In those instances where you cannot work in the field, then find other work that is flexible enough to support your ongoing improvement. Consider second and third shift, weekend schedules, and flexible hours that will enable you to pursue your dream and still pay the rent. These jobs are out there, generally in low demand (because of the relatively low pay and non-standard hours) and you can find them fairly easily. It may be drudge work, but anything that pushes you up the ladder of success is well worth it!

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