LAID OFF DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS? HERE ARE SIX (6) TIPS ON REMAINING SANE

So, yeah, I finally got the job I'd prayed for, and now I'm laid off.

Because of what is happening in our world today, I presumed losing my job would eventually occur, primarily because I worked in the hospitality industry and saw how impacted hotels, restaurants, and even cruise ports businesses were severely declining in the market. To make matters a bit more apprehensive, my mother was then laid off from work a few days later after me. Just like my mother and I, a ton of people have been losing their job left and right or had their hours reduced due to the coronavirus pandemic; therefore, you and I are not alone.

So, what now? How do I properly cope with this?

After I was informed that I no longer was employed, a sense of relief and peace with the decision made concerning me suddenly overhauled the reasoning behind why corporate needed to let me go. However, as we all have seen, everyone responds to crises differently than others; fear of the unknown can often lead to feelings of panic, doubt, and anxiety.

Instead of going into panic mode or feeling sorry for myself, I prayed. Either you believe that there's power in your prayer or not, prayer still works. Your situation may not change immediately, but your perspective of that situation has shifted, and your confidence in God is now leveled up.
Now that you have a new outlook and your faith isn't weakened by your circumstances...

Let's dive into six tips that I've been applying to ensure that I am utilizing all resources during this time of quarantine and most importantly, keeping my mind at peace. Remember to take it one day at a time.

1)  Spend time with God. Period!
Whew! I was speaking with a friend the other day, and I told her that losing this job was a blessing in disguise because it eventually had become an idol. I'd come into work two hours early to get a head start on work, and many days I'd leave two, three hours later, working a total 10-13 hrs day. By the time I'd get home (which was an hour and a half drive), I'm already drained, exhausted to do anything else, not even spend time in prayer. Sometimes, I'd go days without picking up my bible, and would only feed off of sermons and attending church on Sundays.
If losing my job was to get my attention back to the Source, back to the One who opened the door to a position that others didn't find me qualified for, then surely losing it amid a storm is a blessing in disguise.
Because right now isn't the time for my prayer life to be on spiritual E. By any means necessary, we must get back to the heart of being with God, away from the noise and distraction.

2) Apply for unemployment.
If you haven't done so, I'd advise you to act on it quickly. It took me a week to finally complete the application because the site would crash by the time I'd get to the last page (blank stare).
You have been warned, be patient when applying.

3) Contact all of your service providers: Utilities, credit cards, landlords, or mortgage companies, etc.
I got laid off on March 17th, and early morning the next day, I immediately got on a call with everybody and their mama's inquiring about either lowering my interest rate or getting monthly service fees waived. I was able to defer my car note payment for the next three months, as well as my credit card minimum payments.

4) Be smart when using your Emergency Funds $$$
I was very thankful that while I was working, building up my emergency funds was a priority of mine, where I can cover and be stable for the next three months. However, everyone's situation is different than others; many did not have a savings account. But if you did, treat it as if it is a paycheck and budget responsibly. Now is the time to cut off any unnecessary "wants" that aren't beneficial at this moment.
I completely cut-off eating out (meaning no drive-throughs) and started cooking more and have been doing a lot of smoothies. What are some of the many things you don't need and can cut out from your expenses? Start from there.

5) Get some REST
Take a moment to gather yourself and your thoughts.
I take multiple naps during the day (no shame). Lol. I thank God that during this time of a pandemic, I am able to be home with my family and rest. Also, making sure my head is in the right place by not allowing my mind to be bombarded with the fear/anxiety of what is being posted on social media and the news. I use this time to rest in God's Word and promises of security during this time of uncertainty.

6) Create a weekly and daily to-do list.
Doing this has been very helpful because, if I don't plan out my day, I'd be in bed all day, eating non-stop while binge-watching shows on Netflix. Having a routine is easy, but essential, step to create balance in your life, which gives you structure and discipline.

Share some tips that are helping you during this time of quarantine. Be sure to check out my previous blog post on celebrating private victories.

Thank you for stopping by.