Get creative, and follow through!

A lot of us can relate to the numb frustration of spending hours upon hours, day after day, zapping resumes into the ether (which seems to be a black hole) and getting little to no response, let alone the occasional interview. The job lottery can slaughter your spirit like nothing else.

If you're stuck in that cycle, I have one bit of advice: DO SOMETHING ELSE!

I was wondering what all your thoughts are about starting your own business that provides services relating to your profession? For example I am a full charge bookkeeper, 30 exp working for law firms. I am hesitant to do this because I believe I could lose my edd benefits. Also my $ are to tight now, I just would not be able to hold back $ for estimated tax payments.

Chuck - what are the EDD rules on starting your own business while unemployed and still looking?

Just curious what you all think.

A couple weeks ago I planted some catnip seeds. They're sprouting now in my bathroom window. This morning as I showered, looking at the cup with the green frizz got me thinking about patience, job searches, business, and life in general.

Nothing happens overnight, but if you plant seeds and nurture them, they grow. Sometimes they grow without nurturing. Long after you've forgotten all about them, your seeds have turned into plants.

Somebody (a 52-year-old man) e-mailed me through the site recently. The gentleman said that he had no skills and felt hopeless.

Really? 52 years old and not a single marketable skill? Unemployment can do a number on self-esteem. Not to be a drill sergeant or anything, but I find it nearly impossible to believe that someone with that much experience in the working world has no skills.

Hear me now but listen to me later:

Every human being on the face of this planet has something positive to offer.

I'm busy with a bunch of projects these days, and that's a really good thing. Looks like I'm going to skooch in under the wire again this month and make my bills. Next month might be even a bit better if it ever stops snowing. You gotta get out there. The snow can make that tough, though if I weren't busy and needed money, it would provide a ready opportunity to pick up some cash. I'd be trudging around with a shovel looking for un-shoveled walks, banging on doors. You can't afford to be shy or proud when the name of the game is survival.