Reply #81: Much sympathy to all of you... I was unemployed for 2 years [View All]

[supernova]

I was so at a loss for what to do. From Sept 2002 to Sept 2004 I kept it together by using up my savings. First time in my life I had managed to save a little too. But that's gone now. Luckily, I ran into a little more of an inheritance, but I didn't get to keep it. And I was awfully ashamed to disappoint that relative.

I still have a little nest egg, my inheritance from my parents that I only touch for long-term projects, like education or home improvements. It also serves as a kind of retirement account.

The answer is I'm frugal.
I own my home and car; so I don' thave a house or a car payment.
Don't have cable or a cell phone
I bought only what was necessary.
I shop at thrift stores and warehouses, fleamarkets and junk shops.

For me, it was mostly very lonely. The only luxury I allowed myself was the occasional movie or DVD.

I worked with about 8 different recruiters, sent out a ton of resumes, attended networking groups... but nothing for forever. I really enjoyed the networking groups. I looked forward to it.

Finally found a job just before Labor Day. It pays 11K more than my old job and the people are a lot nicer. It's a different division with the same company; go figure. I hope I can stay there. It seems to be working out on both sides.

I don't know if I'll ever feel safe again. But in the meantime, I'm going to enjoy this ride for however long it lasts.

edit: I was a technical writer. Now, I'm a technical editor.