When I wrote about summer jobs as an option for those who are having difficulty finding a permanent job in their career field or industry, I got a terrific comment from someone who is, as she says, earning a paycheck, paying the rent, getting in shape, and making lemonade out of lemons.
I'm a journalist but have just taken on a summer job as a gardener because the print media industry seems to have battened down the hatches in this economic storm. It's not where I want to be but I should earn enough to pay the rent, and by the end of the summer I'll be a lot more toned than if I'd sat behind a desk all day. Call it making lemonade out of making lemons.
I've heard from other people, as well, who are using a layoff as a chance to do something different - working at a resort, freelancing, working at a local amusement park, volunteering, and more. One person even mentioned on Twitter that she was "...having the time of my life post layoff. Who knew?! Projects, volunteering..."
Yes, in many cases, people are scrambling to make ends meet, but even if they are just getting by, they are doing something and not having to worry about what to do when the unemployment checks stop coming.
To step outside the traditional job box, take a look at the sites that list summer jobs and temporary jobs. CoolWorks is one of the great sites for exploring seasonal jobs options. Also, take a look at the top cool jobs and how to find them.
You may be surprised at what you find and what you do, may just be the start of a new career or, at least a step in a new direction.
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Image Copyright Rich Legg