THE recession is just over, but I have met various people who
have been out of work for months, and some for over a year.
The technical term for such workers is the long-term unemployed
(LTU). Most are in their late 40s and 50s. Their skills are
obsolete and they have problems adjusting to the new economy.
Having been jobless for 18 months before, I empathised with their
situation.
However, I learnt to be flexible and take any opportunities which
came my way.
I went to teach in China after only a short discussion with my
wife.
Previously, I would never have entertained such an idea as I was
unwilling to step outside my comfort zone. I also grew more
resilient over that period.
Unfortunately, some people who have been jobless for a prolonged
period of time grow comfortable in that situation and settle into a
routine.
Some are happy to live off whatever savings they have.
The following are a number of ways for LTU workers to move away
from prolonged unemployment.