I was out of a job for about two weeks last month (lucky me, I hear you say). It was one of the crazier periods in my life (trust me! there has been a lot of crazy so far.)

Boot! And you are out!

So, based on my experience, here are five tips on how to cope when you suddenly lose your job. By the way, I did not cope well at all, so you can learn from my experience on how to do things better.

1. Don’t panic!

Of course, I panicked. I have never really been out of a job and just couldn’t bear the thought of months without steady pay. Jobs are hard to come by and I know people who have been unemployed for years. Oh God, what if that is me, I kept thinking. The problem with panic is that it stops you from thinking straight. Unless you have no talent, educational qualifications, work experience, friends and family or faith, losing your job is not the end of the world.

2. Be positive!

See this as an opportunity to do those things you have been putting off because of work. I always wanted to take courses in event management but because I spent the two weeks wallowing in self-pity, I never got to do that. I also did not brush up on my French, visit my sister in Enugu… or work on this blog. I know a guy who lost his job during the recession in the UK; he used that “break” to travel the world.

3. Try not to remain idle.

The fact that you may not have regular job does not mean you have to stop working. Find things to keep you busy; better for you if they are things that would put money in your pocket. Do not spend your time watching movies or surfing the internet aimlessly. Whatever you do, make sure it is something that adds value to you. Learn a trade, a language, study something! Start your own business!

4. Do not be ashamed to ask for help.

Tell your friends and family that you are unemployed- not so that they can pity you but that they might help you with new prospects. You do not know where help might come from so do not be discouraged when some may not be so kind or forthcoming with their response. Remember, be positive!

5. Have faith.

My personal mantra is “something always comes up” because I have learnt something always does for those who believe. During my days of employment I kept watching “Company Men”. It’s a movie about how three men coped with losing their jobs during the recession. Of course, not all of them survived. Anyway from the movie I drew this other mantra which gave me courage towards the end of those two weeks. Here it is: I will win! Why? Because I have faith, courage and enthusiasm.

May you never lose your source of income!