WHAT NOW? Wednesdays – ‘Tis the Season for Layoffs and Good Cheer?

[Kristine]

Lately it seems I cannot turn on a radio, TV or read the news without hearing more doom and gloom about the economy and layoffs during this holiday season. To just say these are tough times may be an understatement for many, especially during a season when we are used to spreading joy and good cheer. So what now?

I’m sorry if this sounds cliché, but I have observed that tough times often make us stronger and bring people together. That doesn’t make it any easier if this is your 1st time without a holiday party, if you’re short on money to pay the mortgage or can’t afford to buy gifts this year. I know some people have to miss out on holiday volunteer opportunities because they are working a 2nd job now to make ends meet. So where’s the cheer?

My experience this season has been that bloggers, shoppers, and retail employees have been more cheerful this year than in years past. Every day I read blogs about people reaching out to help others find jobs or sharing their layoff and job search experiences to help others. There are job clubs, job radio, and job blogs out there to help job seekers. And shopping this year for me has been a dream – people have been friendlier and excited to find and share great deals. I met a great Christmas tree salesman this week at Home Depot who clearly loves his job (“they all look great with lights and ornaments on them!”) – it turns out he actually works in appliances and may be selling me a refrigerator soon. The bagger at Publix cheerfully shared that he hated missing a big game but was SO THANKFUL to have work that he really doesn’t mind.

On the flip side, some of the people I know with steady jobs have been the least cheerful. Maybe it has something to do with their plummeting 401Ks or fear that they may be impacted by the next layoff. Regardless, here are a few of my thoughts on how to experience and spread some joy and good cheer this holiday season:

1) If you can use assistance finding a job, take advantage of all the help out there. It makes others feel good to help you so you will be spreading the cheer in the process!

2) If you don’t have the money to spend on gifts or charitable contributions, you can donate what time you have by volunteering. In addition to the joy you can receive helping others, this can also be a good networking opportunity.

3) If you have a good job but are approaching the holiday and New Year with the fear of losing it, take positive steps. Go the extra mile at work - adding value to your employer and peers works much better than hiding under or clinging to your desk. Taking pride in your work and offering to help others can cheer you up and put you in a much better position.

4) Instead of worrying about what you can’t do this year, please enjoy what you can!