Returning To The Workforce

Can't believe I haven't written a blog article in almost a month but there has been good reason for that.

After being unemployed for a little over 21 months I am glad to say that I have returned to the workforce.

Regardless of your length away from the workforce returning to the workforce after long-term unemployment can be daunting to say the least.

You may not know what to expect and wonder if you can accomplish what you had previously.

After being back at work for four weeks now I would like to share some tips that I feel would be very helpful to anyone returning back to work after long term unemployment.

• Let others help you. You may feel a little frustrated to have someone younger or less experienced than you "showing you the ropes," but you may need some refreshers. 

• Leave your pride at the door.

• Do not expect too much from yourself.

You cannot expect that you will just be able to jump right back into your field as if you had never left. It may take you a little while to get acclimated again, and that is okay.  You may be even in a new field. Expecting too much may make you frustrated. It is natural that you may need a little time to return to your previous output.

• Make sure that you are mentally and physically prepared

Make sure that you get enough sleep because you do not want to be tired. Even if you are used to staying up late, you may need to adjust your hours if you have to get up early to go to work. Also, you will not be able to eat any time you want so be sure that you have a good meal before work.

• Try to be organized

Many who are returning to the workforce still have other responsibilities at home and with kids. You may now have to juggle. Try to be as organized as possible in order to accomplish this. Also, try to separate your work from your home life so that you do not feel overwhelmed. When you are at work, focus on that and do not get stressed about home.


Returning to the workforce after long-term unemployment can be challenging, but it is a wonderful thing. Let yourself feel a sense of accomplishment. As time passes, you will get accustomed to it, and it should become easier.

Returning to work after long-term unemployment is a big adjustment but it is the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Hopefully, your new job turns out to be the one you have always wanted, I know mine has.

Happy Holidays.......

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