With this week’s news of yet another rise in unemployment to 9.5%, I’ve been concerned about all those who have lost their jobs and are looking for work. Without question, being unemployed can be scary and challenging both personally and
financially. In times like this we must have a great deal of courage, faith and
fortitude. Here’s a list of survival strategies for our readers
who are currently unemployed.

1. Avoid negativity – Take a break from negative news and media. Even
   though the job market is tight, many companies are still hiring.
   
2. Reconnect with family, friends and former business associates, they may
   know of possible opportunities.
   
3. Re-visit your skills, talents and abilities. Perhaps you have skills
   you’ve forgotten or that can be applied in a different way or field than
   you thought possible.
   
4. Pay attention to how you are spending your time–it’s your most valuable
   asset! Be proactive in your job search everyday.
   
5. Get support if you need it – you don’t have to go it alone!
   
6. Create consistent self-care habits that will help you to stay healthy
   and positive. Eat well, exercise, take walks, pray, meditate, get plenty
   of sleep and avoid excess caffeine and alcohol.
   
7. Stay connected to others, be in community. Beliefnet has a community of people who pray and support each other around job loss. Also, many churches and synagogues are offering job search support groups, so look into programs that might be available in your area.
   
8. Keep your eyes and ears open – opportunities can present themselves in
   unexpected ways and places.
   
9. Don’t isolate yourself – get out of the house everyday and explore the
   job options in your own community.
   
10. Read Paul and Tracy McManus’s “Affirmations for the Unemployed.”

Here’s a Prayer For Financial Healing:

From the deep reaches of my heart and soul,
To the highest love in heaven,
I pray for a healing of my financial situation.

I reach a hand to the abundance of the universe,
And pray that I learn to transform my fear into possibility.
Let me open to all the good that exists in this world.

I lift my head up to the sun
And pray that I am inspired to turn darkness into light.
Let me raise myself up beyond my problems.

I look toward the future and what-could-be
And pray that I can believe in myself and my abilities.
Let me know in my heart that I have great strength.

I honor the place of fear that has gripped me,
But I pray that I do not let it own me.
Let me do what I can to bring peace to my financial situation,
And trust that this too will pass.

~ Rev. Laurie Sue Brockway