Thanks. A Lot

Being unemployed during the holidays can make you feel like a native american amongst pilgrims (if you don't know your history, an outsider). Everyone is giving thanks for the blessings in their lives. So what do you have to be thankful for? That pink slip? The 23 emailed job rejections that you've received? The fruitless hours you've spent applying to jobs online only to hear nothing?

 

Yes, you should be thankful for all of these things and more. Your pink slip gives you the opportunity to use your day in new ways...hobbies, self-improvement, starting your own business. Your rejections give you feedback that can allow you to improve your resume, your cover letter or your application style. The hours you've spent applying are planting seeds. It may not result in a job this minute, but I've heard from companies months later about the position to which I applied or another one that's even better.

 

Besides, you can eat to your hearts content knowing you can work out every day for the next week to eliminate any guilt. You can kickstart your holiday shopping next week when everyone else is at work, including taking advantage of layaway programs at stores like Toys 'R Us. You can hunt for the best deals and hit each and every store at your leisure.

 

Enjoy yourself this holiday and appreciate all that you have going for you...not the one thing that you don't have.

 

Additional blessing: I was lucky enough to be a featured guest on Outreach Today's upcoming 11/23 episode Bringing Home the Bacon: Job Troubles, Career Setbacks or Unemployed???. For those listeners (and my faithful readers), get a special 15% discount on my eBook, "FUNemployed: Finding the Upside in the Downturn" with coupon code GY75U when you purchase from Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/57522

 

AND, if you want to listen to my internet radio interview, it's on Wed 11/23 at 1pm ET/10am PT on Voice America. Listen here: 
http://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/57652/bringing-home-the-bacon-job-troubles-career-setbacks-or-unemployed-we-have-help-and-inspiration

The Mancow Show

This morning, I was on the Mancow radio show to talk about FUNemployment. I didn't have the opportunity to share all of my key points, so if you're a listener, here they are:

“Unemployment can be devastating, but it can also be an opportunity,” said Kerry Quinn. “After my layoff, I incessantly applied to jobs. But I also got my finances in order, lost 20 lbs, became an eBay seller, was an extra in a movie, wrote a book, took up photography, got myself on the red carpet of the ESPYs, learned to surf and volunteered with children in hospitals. And that’s just me. I’ve also chronicled the stories of others in my eBook.”

FUNemployed shares important information for dealing with debt, depression, job rejection and other challenges of unemployment, as well as the hilarious triumphs along the way. It’s a witty and inspirational must read for those who’ve been affected in any way by the economic downturn or know someone who has. 

If you have any questions or want some more specific information, please leave a comment. Thanks!

FUNemployed Holiday Tips

As we near the holidays, it's important to be able to enjoy yourself on a limited budget. Here are some tips:


1. Some stores (like Toys 'R Us) are bringing back layaway plans so payment can be deferred on purchases. The economy doesn't have to feel like a lump of coal


2. Want to look good for holidays parties? Find out when your favorite salon hosts training nights. Junior stylists and colorists practice their skills under the guidance of the masters for free or a nominal charge


3. Want to see the season's blockbusters? Sign up for test movie screenings in your area. Nothing quite like seeing movies for free and before release


Try to enjoy yourself and stay positive. Being around friends and family can be the best gift of all. Better yet...it's free!