Being unemployed is never a good feeling, especially when you don’t know when you’ll be employed again. Some may be disabled and unsure what to do next, while others may try to get another job, even if it is not a good match for their skills.

If you find yourself in this situation, recognizing your proactive steps can help you feel valued and motivated to prepare for your next job search. Here are 7 ways to get you started and make the time you are unemployed more productive:

1. Update Your Resume

Before you look for another job, it is best to use your time as an unemployed person to update your resume. Even if your resume is up-to-date, it doesn’t mean that it will fit the position you plan to apply for. Take the time to research the right keywords and read each job description before adjusting your resume accordingly.

2. Stick With A Routine

Becoming unemployed after working a 9-to-5 can disorient you from your routine, but maintaining it can give you a sense of stability and control. To avoid feeling lost, try to stick to your daily routine. For example, if you wake up at 8 am to prepare for work, you should still stick to it and then do your job search preparations.

3. Freelancing

To add to your current income or savings, why not try your hand at freelancing? Exploring freelance job sites can open doors to new opportunities and help you feel hopeful about your future. You may be surprised that some of these jobs may even lead you to getting a permanent position if you do your best at it.

4. Network

Aside from sorting out your resume, it is best to use the time you have now to expand your network. Your network can find you the opportunities you need to find the perfect job you can apply for.

5. Grow Your Skills

If you want to improve your skill set, now is the perfect time. There are many online resources that you can use to enhance your knowledge and learn new skills. If you want to know which skills will help you, check the job description for the position you want to apply for, as it usually includes the skill set they want from applicants.

6. Know What You Want To Do

Use the time to understand what you want to do for your career and for yourself. You can change your career path or do something new. If you know what to do next, you can easily pursue it now.

7. Stop Negative Thinking

You must use the time you are unemployed to stop yourself from spiralling into negative thinking. It is indeed stressful to be unemployed, but if you think that you won’t be able to get a new job or that this status is forever, you may end up becoming depressed and unable to move forward.

Becoming unemployed isn’t the end of the world. There is an opportunity out there waiting for you to take; you need to prepare properly and take the time to know precisely what you want to do in the future. Use the guide above to make the most of your time while you are unemployed.

If you’re serious about freelancing success, this is the guide you need. Get it before the next client lands in your inbox.