Unemployment is rising in this country. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that after American businesses reduced employment by nearly 600,000 jobs in January, the unemployment rate now stands at 7.6 percent, the highest level in the United States since September 1992. There are about 130 million people in the American laborforce, which means that somewhere around 9 million people are out of work. That's a lot of people, but it is still a smaller percentage of the workforce than the group of people who suffered unemployment in past recessions. This information from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis offers a little perspective.
If you are looking for work, however, none of this "official" information is very comforting. Finding a good job is a full-time job in itself. Affirm your efforts with prayer, encouragement from those around you, diligence and creativity. Stay engaged in your community, don't withdraw.
If you are looking for work, don't ignore opportunities you may have to start you own business. Sometimes if you can't find the job you want, you have to make it. I am not writing this lightly, as though I believe this is an easy proposition. Entrepreneurship is a tough haul. Getting a business off the ground can take years. But for some people, it is a path to fulfilling work. While it is not for everyone, I really think more people are suited for it than consider it.
This map provided by U.S. News and World Report magazine might be helpful as you discern your next career step. The location of your home may be an important factor in a decision to start a business.
But even if you live in the worst state for starting a new business, consider that entrepreneurs have more advantages today than ever. Access to information years ago used to really separate big and successful companies from small companies that struggled. The Internet has basically eliminated access to information as a competitive factor. This is great news for the little guy.
Technology also has made it easier for people to work from their homes, and it has made it easier for people to collaborate. Twenty years ago, it was pretty difficult for a designer in New York to work with a writer in Los Angeles. But today, computers make it possible for them to work virtually side be side.
My point is, times are tough but we have some advantages today that people in similar situations decades ago did not have. Whatever your employment situation, make the most of it. Always start with prayer, thank God for what you have, and offer up your best to Him.
Comments