This is the third post regarding this topic. Using the 1 Corinthians model of “what’s important in life”, I’ve learned to apply those concepts to dealing with the fears that life brings us.
Fear is closely related to worry. “Worry is a cycle of inefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear. Worry doesn’t empty tomorrow of sorrow, it empties today of its strength”, according to Corrie Ten Boom, Holocaust Survivor
When you are dealing with fear, such as that caused by the loss of a job, you have to recognize that one of the most important things you need is a loving, supportive group of family and friends.
Trying to get through tough times on your own is the worst of all approaches. It’s really common for those of us of the “male persuasion” to try to muscle up and take things on “like a man” and suffer through the tough times. But the truth is, we all need support.
But beware, it’s difficult to build this support system when you are in the frays of dealing with a problem. Therefore, it’s important to build this before you face the need. And, since you never know when you are going to hit a rocky spot, you need to begin now!
The key to building your support system is to build your personal and professional network. Fortunately, there are many tools today to help you do this. Social networking tools, like Linked In and Facebook, are great ways to help build a record of your network. But remember that it doesn’t stop at the keyboard. A true network is comprised of both in-person and virtual relationships.
Last year when I was out of work, I made it a personal goal to network with at least two people per week on an individual basis. I also tried to attend at least two networking functions per week. Add that to the online networking I was doing, and I was building a network that not only helped get me through the rough times, but many of whom are still part of my network today.
So, my advice to everyone is to cultivate and grow your personal network. There’s no better time than today. Then, when you need them, they’ll be there.