UNEMPLOYED
NOVEMBER 2012
by Lisa Maki
There is something about crisis that brings out the best in people. This holds true for unemployment. Though losing a job can be pretty scary and worrisome, it can actually strengthen the faith of a person, making her more creative and resourceful.
Look at the Asian countries (I come from one one of them) and see how they are competing with the U.S. right now. There is a growing population of Asians in the medical profession. They are actually taking over the computer industry. Even their cars are now comparable to U.S. and European brands. There is just something about crisis that pushes a person to excel more. When push comes to shove people will do anything to survive.
I remember the most severe political and economic crisis we had in the Philippines that was triggered by the death of former Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. in 1983. The years that followed were a sure test to a lot of businesses, including my parents’. People lost their jobs, businesses closed, and investments went down. And the Philippines, already being a poor nation, suffered immensely.
As a result of this crisis, consumer product companies became more creative. Out came shampoos, conditioners, canned food, and other items in sachets. They made their products more affordable to the masses by packaging it in small containers and sachets. They restructured and re-strategized their sales and marketing approach. Businesses like used clothing and food carts began to thrive.
So if you are unemployed right now, let this be an encouragement to you. This is just the beginning of something better for you, which would not be possible if you still have your job. Think about the things that you love to do, and which you have been holding off for a long time because you were busy with your job. Now is the time to do it. Think about your family and friends that you have neglected during your very busy schedule and spend time with them now. Think about the book that you’ve wanted to write, the song you’ve wanted to make, the hat you’ve been planning to knit or crochet, the new recipe you’ve wanted to try, the Bible study you’ve planned to join, the exercise you’ve never had the chance to engage in, and the special date you and your husband deserve. There are countless things you can do during this season in your life.
Use this time to pray and seek God on your next steps. Use it to examine yourself and see where you are in relation to where God wants you to be. Now is the time to do a checklist of your skills, abilities, and the things you love to do. Then start re-plotting your course, based on the vision that God has given you. From here, be honest with yourself and ask the following questions:
Your answers to these questions will determine what new direction you have to take.
If you decide to apply for a job different than what you had, be sure to have a real good Resume that will highlight your skills and abilities based on the job you are applying for. I can help you with this one if you can’t do it yourself (http://lisamaki.weebly.com/).
If you decide to start your own business, be sure to do a thorough research on competition, market needs and wants, budget you need, business requirements, etc. It is essential that you come up with a business plan as well. Again I can help you with this one if you can’t do it yourself.
You are in a very good position in your life right now, a position that will lead you closer to what God has called you to do, if you play your cards well. So instead of worrying or feeling miserable about being unemployed, get excited about the doors that God will open for you, if you seek Him and allow Him to guide you.
Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed (Proverbs 16:3).
Look at the Asian countries (I come from one one of them) and see how they are competing with the U.S. right now. There is a growing population of Asians in the medical profession. They are actually taking over the computer industry. Even their cars are now comparable to U.S. and European brands. There is just something about crisis that pushes a person to excel more. When push comes to shove people will do anything to survive.
I remember the most severe political and economic crisis we had in the Philippines that was triggered by the death of former Senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. in 1983. The years that followed were a sure test to a lot of businesses, including my parents’. People lost their jobs, businesses closed, and investments went down. And the Philippines, already being a poor nation, suffered immensely.
As a result of this crisis, consumer product companies became more creative. Out came shampoos, conditioners, canned food, and other items in sachets. They made their products more affordable to the masses by packaging it in small containers and sachets. They restructured and re-strategized their sales and marketing approach. Businesses like used clothing and food carts began to thrive.
So if you are unemployed right now, let this be an encouragement to you. This is just the beginning of something better for you, which would not be possible if you still have your job. Think about the things that you love to do, and which you have been holding off for a long time because you were busy with your job. Now is the time to do it. Think about your family and friends that you have neglected during your very busy schedule and spend time with them now. Think about the book that you’ve wanted to write, the song you’ve wanted to make, the hat you’ve been planning to knit or crochet, the new recipe you’ve wanted to try, the Bible study you’ve planned to join, the exercise you’ve never had the chance to engage in, and the special date you and your husband deserve. There are countless things you can do during this season in your life.
Use this time to pray and seek God on your next steps. Use it to examine yourself and see where you are in relation to where God wants you to be. Now is the time to do a checklist of your skills, abilities, and the things you love to do. Then start re-plotting your course, based on the vision that God has given you. From here, be honest with yourself and ask the following questions:
- What job will fully utilize my skills and abilities?
- What job will I enjoy doing?
- Do I prefer working for a boss or do I want to be my own boss?
- Is working from home an option I am considering?
- If yes, am I willing to sacrifice the benefits I will get from working for an employer?
- If I work from home or start my own business, what will it be?
Your answers to these questions will determine what new direction you have to take.
If you decide to apply for a job different than what you had, be sure to have a real good Resume that will highlight your skills and abilities based on the job you are applying for. I can help you with this one if you can’t do it yourself (http://lisamaki.weebly.com/).
If you decide to start your own business, be sure to do a thorough research on competition, market needs and wants, budget you need, business requirements, etc. It is essential that you come up with a business plan as well. Again I can help you with this one if you can’t do it yourself.
You are in a very good position in your life right now, a position that will lead you closer to what God has called you to do, if you play your cards well. So instead of worrying or feeling miserable about being unemployed, get excited about the doors that God will open for you, if you seek Him and allow Him to guide you.
Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed (Proverbs 16:3).