It's Monday morning. Most people you know are either at work or sat with their nose in a book, while you're sitting at home in front of your computer, checking job postings, writing applications and trying to keep your spirits up.
Looking for a job is not always fun, for you or for your bank account. That's why it's important to find a moment of calm where you can.
Read on to get three pieces of advice on how to manage your finances, as well as how you think about them.
1. Manage your finances
As you're probably already aware, you probably won't luck your way into becoming a veritable Scrooge McDuck when you're out of a job, and that's why planning a budget that fits with your present economy can be a good idea.
With your financial situation changed and your head swimming with thoughts about the future and job applications, getting a sense of awareness when it comes to your finances can put your mind at ease. With an updated budget, you will know exactly how much is in your account, once your rent, insurance, “A-kasse” (“unemployment insurance fund”) and union membership have all been paid.
Maybe you discover that unsubscribing from some of your streaming services while you're still looking for a job could be a good idea. Or, maybe, riding your bike instead of taking the bus could give you some financial wiggle room. Often, even small changes can make a difference when it comes to your budget.
2. A wealth of time
If you could choose, you would probably already be seated with your dream job instead of being out of one. That is, unfortunately, how things are for now, but remember that, while you might be poor in terms of money, you have a wealth of time on your hands.
Use the time you have, now that you don't have to spend eight hours a day in an office chair. Take a walk in the woods listening to your favorite podcast, simmer a confit, read that book you've had on your nightstand for an eternity, or binge some Netflix without remorse.
It's about doing all the things you normally put off. Engage with your hobbies, yourself and your loved ones and you will find that you have more energy for your job hunt.
3. Make a bit of extra on the side
While you're looking for a job, having some project on the side to take your mind off applications can be good. One project you can take on can be, for example, cleaning out your things.
Go through both your closet and your basement and clean out whatever you no longer use, and that others may make use of. After, you can go to a flea market, or sell it on DBA or Tradono. That way, you might get a bit more money for your budget.
Does everything seem like too much?
Remember that your present circumstances are only temporary, and that you don't need to live a pauper's life forever. It's only about the months in which you're out of a job. You might as well make the most of the time on your hands.
This post was brought to you by Spiir. Spiir is a free financial app that helps more than 330.000 Danes keep track of their money. With a single click, you can see how you spend your money, and you can easily set a budget for how much cash you intend to spend on lattes, commuting and groceries. Download here.
