7 Ways To Stay Above Water When You're Stuck In The Land Of Unemployment

So you're just getting out of college or graduate school and you start to realize that becoming an independent human being is both stressful and daunting.

For most of us, on top of our rent and bills, we are stacked with unfathomable amounts of student loans that will take years to pay off.

Therefore, you will need to find a job suitable to your lifestyle and needs. But what if, for some reason, you don't find that dream job for which you spent four years sitting in boring lecture halls?

Take a Deep Breath

You're right: It is scary trying to be independent. Maybe you're lucky enough to have your parents help you during time of uncertainty, but for those of you who do not have that luxury, the best thing to do is not to panic ... too much.

Panicking generally is not always a bad thing, though. Your body goes into fight or flight mode (survival mode), in which you will be forced to go full speed ahead.

However, this can cause a lot of stress, and in the long run, it is terrible for your mind and body. The best thing you can do is stop for a moment and take a deep breath.

Start Writing

Try jotting down a list of things you are good at. Take a moment to remind yourself just what you went to school for and all that you have learned.

Maybe you didn't enjoy your major, or maybe there was something else you discovered you were better at. If so, write it down. When we were in elementary school, we were told to brainstorm our ideas or write in a journal.

This would be the same concept, except that it is geared towards your career. Jot down your skills and interests (keeping in mind your degree) and go from there. Be mindful of your current situation.

Cut Your Expenses

Okay, I know I shouldn't be preaching about this because I am the worst when it comes to cutting off my spending habits. However, if you are in a pickle regarding your finances, you should really only buy what you need.

Do you really need that new Chanel purse (...maybe)? Do you really need that new iPhone 6 (...kind of)? Well, "maybe" and "kind of" should equal a definite "NO" because that money could be the difference between you and the streets!

Suck Up Your Pride

If, for some reason, you are unable to get that dream job you applied for and your rent and bills are starting to pile up, just get any job that will make you money.

Get a retail, waitress or barista job. There are also many temporary agencies that help recent graduates obtain temporary to permanent positions. Having a temporary job can be very good for your résumé, as it will give you skills and experience and for future employment.

Consider it an internship with better pay. In times like these, you should stop being picky and start sucking up your pride. Who cares what your high school or college friends think, anyway? They're in the past and this is your present and your future.

Ask For Help

Always seek help whenever you need it. I'm not just talking about finances after school; I am talking about your overall well-being. Believe it or not, there will always be people who are willing to help you out in some way or another.

Whether it is your parents, a friend or a community organization, there will be help. Always remember, the world is not as bad as the media portrays it.

Turn Disappointment Into Motivation

Nothing is more motivating than rejection and disappointment. Your dream was suddenly taken away from you, and it's f*cking painful. Well, turn that rejection into motivation immediately.

The sooner you get motivated, the sooner your dreams will come true. I won't say it will be smooth sailing, but at least you're headed in the right direction. Who knows, maybe you'll be the next Mark Zuckerberg or Ginni Rometty.

Be Patient

There are thousands of graduates who come out of school with nothing. Take the first leap into your own faith and know that your independent hardship will become more fruitful in many aspects of your life as the years progress.

Congratulate yourself for your current endeavors and be patient with yourself; it is indeed temporary, anyway.

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