My last post on jobs suggested that you “be open to a change in your approach.” Since change is something we all resist I thought I’d continue with this line of thinking.

People Resist Change

I recall the stories of the children of Israel who had been severely abused in Egypt and led by Moses out of the country. Remember the old movie: The Ten Commandments with Charlton Heston? This was a huge change. You might think they would be happy and they were – for a few hours.

Changes Require Facing Uncertainty

After I divorced I searched in many different cities for a teaching job. Ultimately I returned to college to earn another, more employable, teaching certification. You may find yourself in a similar situation. You know what your skills are. You are familiar with an area of work in which you worked in the past. You would like to slip smoothly back into your old job. It is likely, however, that the world changed while you were away from the job market.

Take Time to Evaluate the Market

Pretend you are a reporter and do the research to learn all you can about the job market as it is today. Read the newspapers “Help Wanted.” Talk with an employment agency. Visit your Workforce Commission. Face the reality of what you learn.

Remember You Are Not What You Do

Release any notion that your self-worth is attached to your job. When all is said and done – it is a job for which you receive a paycheck that will in turn put food on your table. You may consider it temporary. Often one is more likely to find employment while employed.

Accept the Challenge

Treat it as an adventure into a promising future. You will learn new skills, meet new friends, and build confidence that will carry you onward.