Going through a period of unemployment?

Getting stressed out thinking about what to do next?

Any period of time between jobs can be scary. When unemployed, you'll be facing in your lot of uncertainty and it can be difficult knowing what to do while waiting for the next opportunity to arrive.

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make sure you have as easy of a time as possible during this period. Below we'll look at 4 important tips you need to know to successfully survive a period of unemployment.

1. Stay Calm

The first thing you need to remember to do when you become unemployed is to stay calm. While unemployment can be stressful, it's important to keep a level head. Make an effort to keep your stress levels in check.

Just because things seem uncertain and it seems like the next opportunity will never come along, that doesn't make it true. Everything passes eventually. Chances are that you'll find yourself with a brand new job soon enough.

While you're applying for jobs, attending interviews, and sending out resumes, try not to get discouraged if things don't go the right way immediately. It can take time to find a new job so don't be too hard on yourself. Remember there are many factors involved when it comes to getting hired and it's not all about you.

By staying calm you'll have the best chance of taking your next step successfully and being strategic and confident while looking for your next career step.

2. Take Action

While you should be trying to stay calm, sometimes people who are unemployed get a little bit too comfortable during this time period. Don't run the risk of letting yourself get lazy.

You should work hard to stay calm, but only so much meditation and yoga can help. Get into the habit of always taking actions that will lead you to your next career step, every day of the week.

These actions may include any number of job hunting tactics such as working on your resume and sending it out, applying for jobs, or going to interviews. It may also mean attending networking events or taking a course to get a new certification or skill.

Only you can determine the best steps to take. However, it's important to always be doing something and taking action.

3. Look For Unemployment Assistance

Don't make the mistake of being shy or prideful during your period of unemployment. You need to reach out and look for government help and other types of assistance when in-between jobs.

You should apply for unemployment benefits as soon as you lose your job in order to make sure you're getting all of the help that you can get. You may also be entitled to insurance from your previous employer through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) depending on the specific circumstances that led to you losing your job.

There are a lot of government programs and other types of assistance programs that can help you during this time as well. Make sure to consider your different options. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), for example, can help you get food when you're unemployed and low on funds.

Mental health can also be an issue during an unemployed period as well, so if you feel yourself getting depressed or anxious, don't ignore it. Look for support groups or professional help in your area if necessary.

4. Make a Financial Plan

One of the most stressful things about being unemployed is that you probably have bills to pay. You need to make sure that everything is being paid on time, even without your usual income.

It's important to sit down and take a long hard look at your expenses and your budget over the next months, or however long it takes, to find a new job.

Look for ways to bring your expenses down and cut out anything that you don't need. If you're spending too much money on a cable bill or a cell phone plan that you don't need, then you may want to consider cutting it out. You may also want to start eating out less.

You may also consider working an odd job while unemployed to make ends meet. If necessary, you may also want to take out an online loan to help you pay your bills if your finances are particularly strained during this time.

The most important thing, however, is awareness. Make sure to pay attention. Take the time to create a solid strategy and to put a good financial plan in place and stick to it.

Final Thoughts

While it can be tough waiting for the next opportunity arrive, your period of unemployment will probably come to an end before you know it. By following the tips above, you'll have the best chance of remaining in great mental and financial shape during this time.