Always Have a Back-Up

Always have a back-up. What is a back-up? A back-up is anything that helps you sleep a little better at night.



How to Back Yourself Up: If you are employed, always have your eyes open for open positions and note how frequently jobs pop up that you are interested in and/or qualified for. Read about positions that are open where you are employed. You may be able to trade up to a higher level position or you can scope out the possibility of being replaced by a new hire. In terms of find a new job, searching online is a handy way to find openings in your area or around the country.

Parents:Your parents took care of you when you were young, so keep up your relationship them. In the event that you ever lose your job and all your savings, you do not want your relationship with your parents to be on the rocks if you ever have to move back home.

Marriage: Being married to someone who has a stable job is the rare kind of "back-up" that is your first line of defense against poverty and destitution. If your spouse is always racking up debt and always spending your money on frivilous things, you may want to consider finding a "back-up" for yourself instead of you being the "back-up" to your irresponsible spouse. From a government standpoint, there are also social security benefits and a multitude of tax benefits to being married (assuming you also have the benefit of being in a happy marriage).

Extracurriculars: Besides work, it is always good to have things to invest yourself in besides your job. Having a fun and creative activity such as music or writing can be a way to bring meaning to your life that doesn't come from work. Volunteering and spending quality time with loved ones is another simple thing that is often put on a backseat to work and work-related demands.

An Actual Back-up: If you feel insecure in your current position take a part-time job or try a volunteer position that could lead to a full-time position. Another option is to start a side business or to try your hand selling something online: thrift-store finds on Ebay, handicrafts on Ebay; or anything creative you can think of on your own website.