Managing your time effectively
If you have been used to the routine of regular work suddenly not having that structure after you have been made redundant can be a mixed blessing. Common reactions can range from panic to paralysis! During your period of redundancy-driven leisure, providing some structure to your days as soon as possible is vital. Job searching needs to be systematic so have times when you will llok for work. Don't forget to factor in some time to relax, de-stress and consider options that might take you down a 'new life route'.
If you having a working partner or children, they may be very happy for you to help lighten the domestic load (it may suprise you to find out how much there is to do - you'll never be redundant when it comes to household chores!), but don't get so consumed by the day to day of running your home that you use that as an excuse not to look for a new direction.
Tips on managing your time after redundancy
- The more senior a position you are looking for, the longer the job hunt, interview, offer and starting process can seem to take. Anywhere from one month to six months from beginning the process to a starting date is really not uncommon.
- You might want to consider taking on some part-time work to keep your hand in and bring in a bit of income, still leaving you time to go to interviews, research the market and so on. You never know, it might lead to something more interesting but at least you won't be moping around in your pyjamas all day! Start by search our job hunting sites directory for possible opportunities.
- You could also consider doing some unpaid work in the voluntary or not-for-profit sector. It may keep your spirits up, keep you involved with other people, look credible on your CV and many people report it being both rewarding and fun to boot. Check out our section on the site for further information and opportunities.
- Got a gym membership you've never used? Now is the time to get or keep fit, build up those 'feel good' hormones generated by a brisk work-out and get out of the house. If the gym membership had to go as a result of a new economy drive, try running, a good walk in a local park or favourite bit of countryside, a ride on your bike - exercise is free and a highly beneficial stress buster!
- Want to get into 'blogging'? Read our section on building websites and blogs for how to get started.
- Want to get into writing? Try out writers.com or writersservices.com for starters
- Catch up on your reading - check out our great books on career management recommendations.
- Improve your skills by taking a recreational or vocational training course. You can start by checking out the training resources we recommend on the site.
- Looking for a sport buddy? A travel companion? Someone to share your hobbies or interests with? Try out motivatingmates
- There are lots more tips in the New Life Handbook 'Rebuilding your life after redundancy'. Why not treat yourself to copy?
- Fancy learning a new language? Check out opportunities in our training and course finder section.
- Want to build your own website or e-shop without any programming skills at very low cost? If you like this site check out our pages on building websites and blogs. You'll be suprised at how much you can do without a lot of technical skill or cash.
- Fancy a holiday just to give yourself a break? If you're prepared to be last minute and flexible you could get just the de-stressing break you need at a bargain rate.
Do you have a story to tell us about how you managed your time effectively whilst redundant? Please contact us so that we can pass on your tips and advice to others.
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"Energy and persistence conquer all things." Benjamin Franklin (1706 - 1790) |