There are a multitude of people who have suffered because of it. Some of that multitude have chosen to shift gears. They are the ones who are back in school to finish something that was started long ago, or to learn new skills. And some of them have started their own business. These are the people whom I commend for their efforts. When the opportunities arise, you will be first to reap the benefits. And to those like Julie, who give their all to help these people succeed, I hold you in the highest regard as well.

To those who are waiting around for things to get better, well, it’s probably going to be a while. In the mean time, maybe you could work on those skills you’re going to need for your next job. Whatever you do, be prepared. If you need your resume retooled, please give Julie a shout. She is one of the best.

My heart goes out to those who are finding the holiday season a bit dismal. I wish you peace.

“bit oversensitive and calling her “insensitive”.”

bit oversensitive IN calling her “insensitive”.

Just wanted to clear that up.

I just know people who are going through the struggle. Yes, it’s a struggle and I’m sure we all see it everyday. We all know someone who is unemployed and having hard times.

Look at the numbers, they don’t lie.

I’m fortunate to be employed and running a business. I know that every day when I read the news and watch TV.

People aren’t whining, they freakin’ need help!

I’m doing my part.

First, like many of you using Jason’s site, I am also one of the many unemployed and actively seeking work. With 2 kids in college, and my own expenses, this is no time for me to let the challenges and hardship deter me from my quest.

From a longer term perspective the US economy has hit a near ‘Perfect Storm’:
• The US has been deficit spending for decades to prop our current lifestyle and comforts, to the detriment of ourselves and future generations. But, we all know this can’t last forever.
• We are seeing a true Information Revolution, much like the agricultural and industrial revolutions. The industrial revolution created huge job displacements, and farming jobs moved to the cities. The Internet we all love and have grown to ‘expect’ has removed a huge amount of the barriers that kept jobs and companies in the US solid. Now equally qualified people in China, India and other countries, willing to do the work for less money are prospering. But, that doesn’t make it hurt any less here. Check out “A Whole New Mind” to learn how Asia, Abundance and Automation are having a huge impact on our world.
• Because of these huge changes, many companies, families and our government have been robbing Peter to pay Paul. While it hurts that I lost my job, I would rather see 90% of my friends and coworkers keep theirs than risk the whole company going down. And told them so at the time.
• In fact, this is the worst economic downturn in most of our lifetime, except those who are still with us who survived the Great Depression.

While all the facts don’t lessen the pain of this change, we can either be the ‘last buggywhip maker’ or accept and adjust to the new realities. That’s the only way to pay the bills, be a contributing member of our society and does help one feel good at the end of the day having done their best to take positive steps forward. While there is a time to grieve ones loss, there is also a time to stand up, help one another and work to make things better for yourself and society.

Now, the rest of the story (thank you Paul Harvey):
• I happen to know that Jason went through a similar change, and from that started JibberJobber and the many other ventures he has going. He’s seen the new wave, and is helping guide others along the path. Including me.
• I can also tell you that another person has been a HUGE help to me in many ways. Help with encouragement, coaching and truly caring. Plus helped me craft a personal brand, currently relevant resume and refresh skills. That person is Julie Walraven. While you might find the ‘whine’ word harsh, does it help any of us to play the ‘blame game’ or to take ownership and do the best we can everyday? If you needed any help from your resume, to personal branding, social media or career coaching, I couldn’t recommend Julie more highly.

Of course, it’s not your fault or mine that the economy is a mess, people are losing their jobs and worse. The only real question to me is, what are we going to do about it? An easy choice for me. A sincere offer to help is something I always appreciate. Let me know if I can help you.

TJ

If it weren’t for Julie’s comment about whining, I think there might have been, well, one comment here. She certainly sparked ire and passion!

I have come to know Julie as a kind, VERY CARING, compassionate, and giving professional. She does stuff in the career space and outside of the career space… and I know she gives to a lot of people who can’t afford professional help.

Big heart.

Is she judgmental about whiners? I’m not sure if that is frustration from working with job seekers who don’t do what they should (where’s the big ready EASY button??), or from people who complain and pontificate and present issues without wanting to lift a finger… or perhaps it was letting off some steam about something unrelated… but whatever it was, I’ll vouch for her character and intention…

Thanks to each of you for being passionate about this topic