Recently I read the story of a young Australian couple who lost their jobs, met each other, traveled the world, fell in love, and are now turning that experience into a source of income— a book. Happier than ever, the couple credits unemployment to bringing them together and allowing them to pursue their dreams. It may seem far-fetched to job seekers, but can losing your job actually bring you greater happiness?
The answer is maybe. If you loved your job, loved your coworkers, and had zero complaints then unfortunately, recent unemployment may not make you a happier person. If, however, you do not fall into those categories, than unemployment just might provide you an opportunity to improve your happiness regardless of the state of the job market. Getting back into the job search doesn’t have to be scary. It can, in fact, be exciting.
First, my own personal story: since becoming unemployed, or underemployed, I took my first vacation in two years— with another one in the works— I spend more time with my friends, family, and boyfriend, go to sporting events, and have learned a variety of new skills. During my previous period of employment I didn’t really have a chance to do those things because of the location and time commitment of the position. I love working, though. I stay busy with a number of jobs and now my job search as well, but not missing out on the other things in life I enjoy has made me a happier person overall. I get to experience new adventures and my job search has lead me to meet a number of new people and friends.
We all hear how tough the job market is, how job seekers are lost, and how our job search is fruitless. We know. But it doesn’t mean we can’t turn our unemployment situation around to our benefit. Recently, unemployed job seekers have the opportunity to both showcase their skill sets and look outside their previous career field in their job search. This can broaden your horizons and leave you many more options you may not have considered without unemployment. Additionally, while the job market and your job search may cause some stress, so too can being at a job you really dislike. It may be a relief to no longer work at a job which doesn’t suit you.
You may not find the love of your life in other job seekers who too would love to travel the world, and with whom you both have the funds to do so. That couple is pretty rare. Yet if you take a step back you may find yourself happier in recent unemployment and better off than you were before. Focus on the positive and check back with Spark Hire often to grab the latest job seekers tips for your job search.
Did you recently lose your job and find that you are happier without it? Did you leave your job because you absolutely disliked it? Let us know about it in the comments section below!
IMAGE: Courtesy of Flickr by kudumomo
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