WHAT I’VE LEARNED WHILE UNEMPLOYED | People of the Second Chance

Hello there! If you are new here, you might want to subscribe to the RSS feed for updates on all things People of the Second Chance.

Posted by Mike Foster:

This is what Mickey Chapatte shared with Esquire about what he has learned while being unemployed.

Mickey is 53 years old and lives in San Diego. So much of what he says below is true. I think it reflects what many feel when they have lost a job.

Here is what he says:

1. Ten months is a very long time.

2. Every time a right-wing a-hole is on TV talking about how the unemployed could get jobs but they don’t because they are getting paid not to work, I want to throw something at the TV. But I can’t afford a new one.

3. I now understand why some people never want to retire.

4. I always took pride in the fact that I was not one of those guys whose ego was tied to his career. But when I lost my job, I was amazed at how much my ego was hurt.

5. Having two kids in college is not a good time to be unemployed.

6. I went back to coaching because I had the time and I wanted to give to others.

7. I was reminded how much the kids give to me.

8. Thirteen- and fourteen-year-old boys do not care if you have a job or not, they just want to be coached. They want you to treat them like the young men that they’re becoming, and it helps if you’re a little immature yourself.

9. There are people who are far worse off than I am.

Subscribe to Blog | ShareThis

This entry was posted in gracenomics, identity. Bookmark the permalink.

Anonymous

It’s been 19 months for me. I endeavored to use this time to start my own work and it’s been a really slow ride. In fact, it will still be a long time until I’m making enough money to bring my wife home. In the mean time, I take care of a 22 month old and an 8 month old…. the stay at home dad. After I got past the ego/pride thing, I really started enjoying the ride. And gratitude is a huge piece to getting through this stuff.

My pet peeve was the fact that my background was in the Non-profit world and Ministry. As a result, NO ONE would hire me in the commercial sector because they couldn’t see the connection to the mainstream business world…. so I moved on to start my own thing.
http://twitter.com/MikeFoster mike foster

thats really interesting about the non-profit world limitations in a corporate setting…though glad youre enjoying the ride!
Sedonagucci

I understand Mickeys feelings about unemployment in a hurting economy.
I’ve also have been fighting this battle off and on the past 2 years after losing my job of 12 years due to the company going Chapter 11 and then Bankrupt.
I’ve accepted lower paying jobs the past two years. Only to be let go due business trends and being the low seniority person. Again, I’m spending several hours daily searching for suitable employment.I’ve learned to let go and place everything in Gods hands. My methods just don’t work very well. I keep myself focused and my self esteem up by my faith and trust in God. Difficult situation after being a successful professional for over 25 years.
Anonymous

There seems to be some sort fo stigmas attached to a resume with “non-profit” and “ministry” attached to them. Crazy talk, I tell you!
http://twitter.com/visinsights Phil Thompson

Great Stuff, Mike – I can completely associate my experiences with Mickey. Thank You for Sharing!
http://twitter.com/MikeFoster mike foster

it certainly resonated with me when i read his story…
http://twitter.com/MikeFoster mike foster

hang in there my friend! were cheering you on!
http://twitter.com/MikeFoster mike foster

that is crazy! though glad youve found your niche!
Anonymous

One resounding question hit me through this, “What would I do with my time if I immediately had more of it.”

Thanks Mike for initiating this thought. Now, to do something before I get fired.
Mchill1028

Joanne McClain, Liz Mathews, Kathy Chacona, Jodi Springbett, Tory Weldon, Joan Preglisoco. Cindy Teubner, and Monica Franck are all very egg-cited to read your commentary and wish you well. Ciao!

Jan 11