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That’s right. Don’t rush. Don’t be in a hurry. We wouldn’t dare say don’t worry and don’t stress. We would say - don’t do it for long. Take the body blow, feel the pain, and then work to inhale deeply. Stand up straight, and get to work. Being unemployed can be harder work than being employed. The reward for working hard and working smart during an unexpected layoff can be great.

You are not alone. Millions of people across the country are receiving the same bad news, often in an emotionless, "all-business" fashion that leaves you with an instant emptiness in your stomach that is hard to forget, even long after it has gone. It’s not just a financial shock, it’s an emotional one, too. Don’t let it paralyze you to the point of inaction. Now is the time to bounce-back.

Much like filing for personal bankruptcy can feel like a personal failure, quite often, a job loss can come with the same feelings. Recognize this - absent misconduct or poor performance on your part - it was out of your control. "It’s just business." It’s all about the economy right now and everything is far from rosy and bright.

Find ways to keep your emotions in check. Lean on friends and family. Visit a spiritual advisor or consider seeking some personal counseling. However, don’t let much time lag between the layoff and getting down to the business of getting back in business. A couple of big tips that require urgent attention:

1. File for unemployment compensation right away.  The recent stimulus package has actually added $25.00 per week in unemployment benefits.
2. If you are paying child support - file for a modification as fast as you can.  In many states, child support orders can be retroactive to the date of filing.  Delays on your part could worsen your financial situation.

Next, you need to take action regarding your health care situation.  Can you go without?  Can you find and afford private coverage?  Should you go with COBRA? Did you know that the recent Federal Stimulus Package also has a provision that subsidizes COBRA premiums for an involuntary layoff?  It is possible to find less expensive coverage than what COBRA may afford you, however, you need to understand that changes may be required (doctors, pharmacy, hospital, etc.)  If you have less than perfect health or a pre-existing condition, private insurance is likely not a viable option, in which case, retaining the employer’s health insurance through COBRA may be your best bet.

Next up - it’s time to cut back.  Less income must translate into less spending.  Sacrifice the premium satellite television package.  Eliminate the "unlimited text messaging plan" or any other luxury services that your cell provider has persuaded you to purchase.  The idea here is we’re dealing with a short-term situation.  Don’t go out to dinner.  Reduce or eliminate adding more money to your investments.  Create a new budget!

Tapping the right resources to help manage your situation is critical.  Avoid the costly impact of hitting retirement or 401K accounts, along with their taxes and penalties.  These are mostly untouchable if you reach a point of bankruptcy proceedings.  If you have that emergency slush fund, manage it diligently, remember - this is a period of focusing on NEEDS and not wants.  Borrow if you can, consider a loan against the car you own free-and-clear.  This suggestion is here only because the interest rates are often smaller than credit cards (which should be avoided).

Doing the post-mortem on the job is important.  Recognizes areas where you were weak and work to improve them.  Whatever you do - leave the job on good terms!  You’re leaving a facility full of potential contacts, referrals, and pats-on-the-back for your next job opportunity.  Also, don’t rule out the possibility of being rehired.  It happens!

Forward-looking is forward-thinking.  Remember - there are still a lot of jobs available for you.  Don’t give up.  Don’t spend too much time watching television and playing video games.  If you treat your day like you’re at work, you’ll remain in the groove.  Get up like you normally do.  Shower.  Get active.  Even dress for work.  You’ll be surprised how it makes you feel and just think… you’ll be ready to go to an interview on a moment’s notice!  Stay active in your job search.

Additional tips:

• Remember that any job-hunting expenses, including but not limited to: mileage, travel, copying, mailing… are tax-deductible provided you’re staying in the same occupational field.
• Supplement your income.  Be creative.  Don’t rule out everything.  Consider offering baby-sitting services, do housecleaning, landscaping/yardwork, mow lawns, shovel driveways, consult work in your area of expertise.
• Increase your education!  Believe it or not, some state schools and community colleges have programs that offer FREE TUITION for people who are laid-off/unemployed.  Look into it.  This is another one of those proverbial "windows that open" when a "door closes."
• Check your state’s website for programs out there for assistance.  You will be surprised at the types of help you might find.

Good luck!