Book Description
Have you or someone you know been the victim of downsizing, rightsizing, out-placements, reorganizations, mergers, takeovers? The surgical attempt of companies to "downsize" fails to recognize the personal pain and suffering it creates. Statistics show over 750,000 jobs have been eliminated in the first 6 months of 2001. How can the affected survive without a steady stream of income to cover credit card bills, car payments, the mortgage, grocery bills and medical bills? The manner in which one deals with unemployment depends on many factors. Regardless of the negative aspects of being unemployed, there is always a new opportunity around the corner. All you have to do is find it. "The Joys of Unemployment" takes a look at the lighter side of unemployment. It provides the unemployed with a few hours of diversion to take their mind off the situation, soften the sting and take a positive approach to a difficult situation.


From the Author
Writing this book was how I dealt with the sudden career change I was forced to take. While looking for ways to survive, unemployment forces you to appreciate other things, like life itself. Change is a constant process in life and we are simply part of this process. We should enjoy life, meet its challenges and not waste precious energy and emotions being bitter and angry at the invisible enemies. Don't let them win.


About the Author
When author, Jim Hayes, was kicked out of the corporate door to face unemployment for the first time, he decided to write a book that would be therapeutic for any reader facing a similar situation. Hayes is a human resources and training professional with more than seventeen years experience. He has been on both sides of the desk with regard to unemployment. His wit and humor helped him cope with his first pink slip. It may serve to soften the sting of being downsized right out of a job.


Excerpted from The Joys of Unemployment by Jim Hayes. Copyright © 1998. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.
Pride. Keeping your personal self-esteem is difficult in hard times. Just remember, they may take your job, they may take your property, but the one thing they cannot take is your pride. Having the confidence in yourself to survive this episode in your life will be the key to actually surviving. Whatever you end up doing, whether it is minimum wage, menial labor or if it is a better paying job in a bigger company, always do your work with pride. Your inner pride, self-esteem and self-confidence will be seen and felt by the people you encounter. Jokes. Being a bus boy isn't so bad - Look at all those leftovers you get to sneak home. You never knew how long milk would last if you watered it down. You don't miss all those friendly folks on the highway during rush hour.