Hi Bonk:
Thirteen years ago i parted company with the company i was with because it just wasn't working out, for me or the Owner. Didn't know where i was going but hit the streets every day, cruised the want ads each morning and called everyone I knew, both in town and in other towns. Ended up finding a job at the end of two weeks. Was going to start looking outside my field that coming Sunday (maybe I could learn to drive a forklift?). It was only for 2/3 of my previous pay, no benefits, but at least it was in my field, architecture. Well, worked there for three months with my savings account dwindling and the plastic bills growing. The Owner loved the work i did and did all she could for me within her means, but it was obvious this was not a permanent solution to my career/income needs. So, i started cruisin' the want ads again, calling around again and ran a situation wanted ad in a national professional newsletter.
About two weeks later i got a call from a "sweet voiced southern thang" asking me to fax her my resume because her boss had seen my ad. It said I’d be willing to relocate to NC, SC, VT or MD. We were in VA at the time and she was in SC. Well, ended up coming to SC and that’s been 12 years now.
The moral of the story? Keep up the steady effort on the work search. Go to “work” each day by looking for work. Don’t be afraid to relocate if your family is willing. If Charlotte is more important, don’t be afraid to change professions. Things change every day, why can’t you? You are after all, still young, at least two years younger than me! Shut down all non-essential expenses. BTW having some fun is an essential! Enjoy “family time”. Work on your hobbies in your “spare time” so you can recharge your soul and face the tasks before you in the days ahead. Don’t give up. Vent “creatively”. Look to your family for moral support. Let your friends, consultants and former colleagues know you’re actively seeking employment. The bigger your net the greater likelihood you’ll catch a good fish.
Good luck. BTW – Work’s been slow here since November, so my family has been on a “tight budget” for six months. Be glad when the economy sorts itself out.
Regards,
Ted