The truth is, though, I feel a little guilty for not working. How is that possible? Guilt? First of all, that's not like me at all. I have few regrets about my life. I know that all my experiences have brought me to the place I find myself today, so why regret any of the choices I've made. I've decided to learn something from those choice that have been more challenging.
On a larger spectrum, I have to ask a question. With so many people out of work and seemingly having more time to relax, I wonder what the balance is between those who are working and those who are not? Although I have mere twinges of resentment for those who have ample time to chill out, to use the common vernacular, are there a growing number of people who look at those without work as slackers?
I suspect it's not as cut and dried as all that. I suspect the pressures on those who are not working are significant and it may be that they are suffering with being out of work in a way those of us who are working will never understand.
Those who are faced with these grim situations, even though they may spend adequate time seeking work, may feel compelled to escape the realities of their lives by jumping into the pool of electronic stories on the tube. Once there, they may become nearly paralyzed by the freedom from worry they experience while delving into Judge Judy, Lost, or the Housewives of New York.
As reported by Hoare and Machin in an article in the Australian Journal of Career Development (2009), a foundational study by Austrian psychologist Marie Jahoda recognized that not only did unemployment affect a person's ability to earn an income, it also affected that individual's, "sense of collective purpose, opportunities for contact with others outside of their immediate family, a sense of social status, enforced activity, and a structure to their time. Jahoda found that unemployment reduced or deprived people of those five psychosocial benefits, causing them to experience significant distress."
There are coping benefits attached to leisurely pasttimes that include physical activities, visiting with friends, and other interactive choices for relaxation. The challenge arises when one has a more pessimistic general view of life and become paralyzed by their fears. Often, it is then that individuals become glued to their televisions.
Hoare and Machin (2009), in this same article, suggest that a positive outlook amplifies one's ability to select stress-relieving activities that can be more productive rather than becoming increasingly isolated and stagnant in one's activities.
While intervention techniques tend to work with those adequately motivated to seek work, it may fall on those around the unemployed to support him or her in renewing a focus on finding work, reintegrating into the community, and finding a more positive attitude toward life, even in the face of such daunting difficulties.
So, tonight as I sit in front of the television, trying to quiet my mind from the week's acitivities, I will likely offer a silent prayer of gratitude for having the opportunity to work and not suffering from the stress of worrying about our income in the same way others must. I will also send out a message to the Universe to request jobs for those who are ready to work.
Reference:
Hoare, P., & Machin, M. (2009). SOME IMPLICATIONS OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPERIENCE OF UNEMPLOYMENT. Australian Journal of Career Development, 18(3), 57-61. Retrieved from Education Research Complete database.
P.S. Crystal came in second. I suspect she will have an amazing career nonetheless. :-)
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4 comments:
James,
This blog comes at an odd time for me because, I am curently feeling incredibly sick and have been told by everyone to take some time to just veg or chill out, but as I do not have a job, I take no pleasure from it. I am stressed 100% of the time as I wonder when my groceries are going to run out, or worse! Of course, the sickness is mostly caused by the stress I have put on myself in searching for employment.
When people tell me they wish they had the kind of time I do to read books or watch movies, I wonder if they think about how I barely enjoy the books or the movies, these days, because even as I read a book at noon on a Monday, I am thinking, "There is something more I should be doing to find work."
I have all of the time in world to relax, but I do not even remember what it feels like to be relaxed. Not having a job, but having infinite freetime only makes the stress worse.
A thoughtful blog indeed, and I the universe sends something my way soon!
Kyle Hadley
Ah, a wonderful read. And it touches things in me. I'm not working, because of my health. It's a challenge. I've been dealing with it long enough and got sick enough of the pessimistic view that I live my life to the fullest despite not having much money or much stamina. I spend time doing things I love, dancing, singing, sewing. I use my time to take a deeper look at things, to relate to the intangibles in life.
I have found that I can create a schedule for myself. It's highly imperfect, but whose isn't?
Still, it isn't always easy. I would so like to fix this situation. I would like to know that there is something I can do to make a dramatic positive change in my circumstances. Haven't found anything that does that yet, and I've been at this awhile.
But, I have found that I can choose not to 'side line' myself in my circumstances. I can choose to see myself as someone who has things to give and who contributes a good deal to others through intangible means, immeasurable means. This is a gift I have to claim for and give to myself by how I look at things. I must, it keeps me living in hope even when things don't look good.
Kyle,
Having been where you are, I know the challenges inherent in not working and feeling as though there are no options.
The best news is that there are programs that are available for training, job search assistance, and support during this difficult time if you are interested.
Let me know if you'd like some of this information. I'd be happy to assist.
Thanks,
J-
Dear Elizabeth,
Your approach to maintain a positive outlook and a willingness to fearlessly do what you love is what will keep you in good stead. That positivity will go a long way toward building a life that is satisfying and complete.
Brava, diva! :-)
Love,
James
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