We are living in a financial crisis. Millions of Americans are unemployed and looking for ways to make ends meet. Many of us have not faced a financial crises of this magnitude ever. So what do we do?
Well, the first and maybe the most important step is to maintain a positive attitude. The way you look at your situation is extremely important and this mindset will help you deal with your emotions.
Here are some suggestions to combat hard financial times
Nest, make a plan. Without a plan, it’s like steering a ship without direction. Your plan should include your financial goals and what you can do right now. Even though you may be going through a difficult time, realize that this is temporary.
Become pro-active. Look at your bills and write them all down. You may have to pay rent or mortgage. What about electricity and utility bills. Credit cards and student loans? How about food and clothing? If you have small children, you still have to provide for them. Bills don’t stop coming when we lose your job. How do we handle them?
The first thing you may want to look into for help is an emergency fund. If you save money each month it may be time to access it. If you do not have an emergency fund let’s look at other options:
- Our most likely option when we lose our jobs is to file for unemployment benefits. Unemployment is usually 26 weeks but, under the federal bill (CARES Act) it was extended to 39 weeks in New York. If you live in another state check to see how long it is.
- This is the time to check out your skills. If you have a particular skill it is time to tap into it. Look for ways that you can put it to work for you to make extra money. Check out Amazon.com and start a seller account. You might have stuff around your house that you may be able to sell. Maybe, you have clothing or handbags that you do not use anymore. Why not make some money on them. Put them on thredup.com
- Call friends and see if there is an opening in their company. You must use all tools available. Update your resume. Practice your interviewing skills. Keep an open mind and don’t get disgruntled. We are in uncertain times and we do not know the outcome but, it is up to us to try everything at our disposal.
- The best thing that you can do is to maintain a positive attitude. Don’t be angry at yourself and don’t blame others. Remain open. Another place that you could try is fiverr.com This is a great place for entrepreneurs that is thinking of starting their own online business. This website allows you to connect with people that need all kinds of projects filled. They allow you to post your profile and people can email you their job. You can say yes or no. The fee is $5 but, you can make a deal with your potential customer for a different amount of money. How about dog walking or dog sitting in your home. Check out rover.com
Remember, this is where your creativity comes into play because only the strong survives. Listen to positive tapes. Practice some of the things that they ask. Find a way to give back. Even though you are going through hard times, there is always someone in a worst position than you are.
Keep your chin up and hopes high. You will not always be in this position. It is a learning process. Help as many people as you can, and you might find someone that will turn around and help you.