How to feel ‘productive’ when you are unemployed

Productivity is objective and what may seem productive to one person, may seem like a waste of time to the next.
person writing on a book
Productivity is objective and what may seem productive to one person, may seem like a waste of time to the next.

In today’s world we all aim to be ‘productive’ in some sense, however, I think we all struggle with knowing what this really means.

Productivity is objective and what may seem productive to one person, may seem like a waste of time to the next.

We are told that as soon as we leave school, we must go to university, then once you graduate you should be into a graduate job or take up a master’s degree.

But what if that plan doesn’t go to accord? How do we stop feeling like a failure because we don’t know which step to take next?

Alongside this, it can be difficult to find motivation and know what steps to take when you don’t have a job to wake up for and a routine to keep you in check.

We feel the social pressure mounting. We see our friends and acquaintances on social media achieving milestones and enjoying their lives, making our own achievements seem insignificant.

We rely so much on keeping our days busy and active to fill the social requirement of ‘productivity’ without fulfilling any meaningful goals.

I think a lot of the problem comes with comparison. We are comparing our productivity to other people and assuming that they are doing better than we are.

If we take the focus off other people and put it back on ourselves then we will feel better and in return become more proactive.

Being in our twenties comes with a huge amount of pressure. This can come from familial expectations, career goals and a lot of guilt.

We may feel guilty for relaxing, when we believe we should be working. Living at home can also be a source of guilt as you may not want to rely on your parents for your financial needs.

Some small tips which may help this uphill battle:

  • Create and maintain a daily routine which is tailored to you: 

This can start with waking up at a set time and preparing yourself for the day. It’s really easy to fall into bad habits when we are unemployed, we can become comfortable with our situation.

  • Ensure you are eating well and take up a hobby/sport:

You will be surprised how this one can work wonders especially for your mental wellbeing. For myself, I have always played hockey, it helps to know that although I don’t have a job, there is something that I must attend.

  • Getting money in the bank: 

There is a huge pressure in our twenties to start a career and know exactly what we need to do as soon as we leave university. This is all a façade. Whilst you are looking for a ‘dream job’, get something on the side, that will bring in a little income and keep your mind busy.

  • Keep in touch with your friends and don’t isolate yourself from your family:

Whilst we are in the midst of trying to plan our entire lives whilst we are unemployed (an impossible feat btw) we can become enwrapped in our own struggles and forget about those closest to us. Take some of your time to spend with your family and friends and try to enjoy the small moments you get.

  • Go and travel for a while

Travelling can open your mind for the better and make you realise that getting a job is not the only option to take after you have finished your studies. You can meet likeminded people who share the same struggles as you and, in some respects, can expand your possibilities of getting a job.

As we have established, it can be difficult to remain ‘productive’ during unemployment. However, it can be made even harder when you are constantly comparing your life to others.

If you can relate to this topic, feel free to leave a comment.

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