Finding yourself unemployed or between jobs can be a challenging and uncertain period in life. I should know — I was laid off from my job (along with hundreds of other colleagues) this summer.
While the job search is undoubtedly important, it can also be very stressful. So, it's important to view this downtime as a valuable opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery too. I've found that engaging in non-career related activities each day can not only broaden your horizons but also enrich your life in unexpected ways.
Here are some fulfilling activities to consider during this transitional phase:
1. Invest in Your Health and Well-Being
Unemployment can be stressful; hence, prioritizing your physical and mental health is
crucial. Use this time to adopt a regular exercise routine, explore meditation (I'm partial to sound baths!) and focus on a balanced diet.
When I was first laid off, I could only manage one or two HIIT (high intensity interval workouts) per week because I was too tired, weak and sore. With self discipline, I've scaled up to one exercise activity per day including HIIT classes 4x per week.
A healthy body and mind are the foundation for a successful future.
2. Learn Something New
Consider taking up a new hobby or skill that you’ve always wanted to explore.
Whether it’s learning a language, a new food recipe or sport (I'm learning pickleball!), acquiring new skills not only boosts your confidence but it also adds depth to your personality.
3. Give Back
Volunteering can make a positive impact on society plus provide you with a sense of
purpose and fulfillment. With more time available in your schedule in between interviews, consider offering your time and skills to local charities, shelters or community organizations.
Not only will you be contributing to a good cause, but you might also gain valuable experiences and contacts.
4. Travel (if You Can)
If circumstances allow, consider traveling to new places, even if they are just nearby towns or cities.
Traveling exposes you to diverse cultures, broadens your perspective and allows for valuable self-reflection.
Also, it's never too late to be a tourist in your home town. Exploring your own surroundings with fresh eyes can also be an enlightening experience. I for one am loving free museum Tuesdays in San Diego!
5. Read Widely
Reading is a gateway to knowledge and imagination. Use this time to indulge in books across various genres.
Whether it’s fiction, self-help, history or science, reading not only expands your vocabulary but also enhances your analytical thinking and creativity.
And yes, audiobooks can count too!
6. Expand and Nurture Your Relationships
Unemployment can be an excellent time to reconnect with old friends and colleagues or make new connections.
Attend networking events, seminars or Meetups. Say "Yes" to every social invitation. Call or visit that friend you haven't seen in ages.
Building a strong network can open doors to unexpected opportunities in the future.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Self-Reflection
Use this period of unemployment to reflect on your goals, aspirations and values. Practicing mindfulness through meditation or journaling can help you gain clarity about your path ahead.
Understand your strengths and weaknesses and work on building a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.
For mindfulness and journaling tips, read my article "5 Career Lessons I've Learned While Unemployed."
8. Appreciate the Present Moment
Don’t forget to appreciate the present moment. Life is a journey, and every phase, including unemployment, has its lessons to offer.
Embrace this time as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, and believe in your ability to overcome challenges.
Remember, being between jobs doesn’t define your worth. It’s what you make of this time that truly matters. Use this period as a stepping stone toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
9. Get Outdoors
What I learned from 10 years of living in Chiago is that seasonal depression is real.
Humans are not meant to stay inside and stare at screens. Enjoying the sunshine on your face produces vitamin D, which in turn creates serotonin that boosts your mood.
I'm spoiled with sunshine here in San Diego, but regardless of your location — go for a walk or indulge in an outdoor activity you love every day.
10. Explore Your Creativity
Finally, it's really important to continue to flex your mental muscles. As with reading, finding a creative outlet is important to staying sharp.
Whether you like to draw and write (like me) or you prefer to cook, play music, develop a website, craft or build something, make sure you're exploring your creative side.
During this brief career break, it's so important to stay positive, stay motivated and embrace the opportunities that come your way. That's the only way to stay in the right mindset to land you your next big break.
If you find yourself unexpectedly unemployed, remember to enjoy the downtime and make the most during your journey of self-discovery and personal growth!
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