While we generally look at being jobless as an unfortunate event, there’s actually a few good things about it. Your time being unemployed can be turned into something productive. It can also open opportunities you never thought you needed to move forward in your career. Make the most of the time you have in your hands and take advantage of unemployment with these tips!

Learn new skills
Besides looking for a new job, there are other things you can do to keep your mind and yourself active - learning a new skill. Whether it’s pursuing a different degree or enrolling in an online course, make the most of your free time to learn something new and develop new skills.

Have you always looked forward to learning how to build a website or learn copywriting or launching a startup? This is now the time to make it happen! After all, these skills might be just what you’ll need to find opportunities for growth and advance in your future career!

Consider freelancing and other side hustles
Being unemployed doesn’t necessarily have to mean a halt in your income flow. Of course, you can continue earning even without a full time job. Explore side hustles or do freelance jobs.

When searching for temporary opportunities, try to look for the ones that allow you to maximize your professional skills. Explore side hustles that give you the chance to maximize your skill set and sharpen your axe. Not only is this an excellent way to stay productive and keep earning during this period; it will also give your resume a good boost to enhance your future career opportunities.

Do volunteer work
Another excellent way to make the most of your unemployment is to do volunteer work. There’s never a bad time to give back to the community and spread kindness. So go ahead and find out what’s happening in your community. Join and participate in the charity activities while you have time. This isn’t only an excellent use of your free time. It’s also good for the heart!

Stay informed
While waiting for a new career opportunity, take the time to do some research and reading to stay informed and updated. Acquire more industry knowledge by checking the latest news on your industry. This will help equip and position yourself as the better candidate when you apply for your next job.

Searching for a new job may come easy for some but may take a few months or even years for some others. While it’s normal to be upset if you’re currently unemployed, don’t lose heart. There are plenty of opportunities for growth and productivity during this time which you can use to improve and succeed in your career in the future.