Experts estimate that in 2019, most job seekers spend close to six months to land a job. While there are many hurdles to jump (from competition to the current state of the market to lack of skills or experience), if you’re a recovery survivor, you have the additional challenge of explaining job gaps — not to mention mustering up the confidence to work again. Of course, you may not be able to wait until landing your first job after recovery to start generating an income, so RIZZARR shares a few ways you can bring in some cash without slowing down your career search.
Turn a Hobby Into a Side Business
There’s never been a better time than recovery to pick up a new hobby or revisit an old one. Not only will it keep you from thinking about cravings or withdrawal symptoms, but it can also provide you with a new sense of purpose and a boost in self-confidence.
But why stop there when you can turn your hobby into a profitable side business? These days, it’s crucial that you have an online presence, whether that means developing your own website or using an online storefront such as Etsy. Whichever route you choose, definitely use social media to market your wares.
Participate in a Mock Trial
While it’s not going to be a daily gig, Money Pantry points out that you can make money from participating as a part of the jury in a mock trial. Considering you have time on your hands until landing your regular 9-to-5, it can be an interesting way to bring in some extra income — even if it’s coupled with something else. Simply sign up with one of the available sites online and wait to be contacted.
Work as a Virtual Assistant
Working as a virtual assistant is one of the easiest ways to bring in some income in a home setting. Some common duties include bookkeeping, accounting, scheduling appointments, making phone calls, data entry, marketing, copywriting, researching, email correspondence and editing, so chances are your skills will fall into one or more of those areas.
Find Writing Jobs
Businesses are always on the lookout for quality content for their websites. If you have a talent for writing, you can compose interesting and engaging blog posts. Find opportunities by creating a profile on an online job platform and filtering through available writing jobs.
Get Involved With Animals
Research suggests that animals can have a positive effect on those recovering from an addiction because they ease feelings of depression and anxiety. While you may not have the financial resources to responsibly take care of your own pet until you get back on your own two feet, you can make money by watching other people’s furry friends by becoming a pet sitter or dog walker.
Almost anyone can qualify, but it’s important that you explain to the owner why you’d make a good sitter/walker and why you would be dedicated to any tasks. Just make sure you understand that this type of gig may require cleanup duties and the confidence to deal with pets of all temperaments.
Purge and Sell
While you don’t want to give away everything you own, recovery is a good time to purge and start fresh — especially if there are items that serve as a painful reminder of the past. Take inventory of all of your personal belongings and consider what could be worth selling online. Good photographs make all the difference, so make your ad stand out from the rest of the crowd by taking a quality image and writing a good description.
Coping With Stress
When you get back into the work environment, make sure you’re prepared to handle the stress that comes with it as it can trigger a relapse. Rely on the coping skills you learned to help you navigate this process so that you stay on the sober side of the road. Other healthy ways to beat stress include eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercising on a regular basis, and speaking with counselors if you need support.
Making a career move after recovery is challenging, but remember to rely on your skills and resources during the transition. Look for ways to earn income that won’t get in the way of your progress, and take care to avoid triggers. With solid coping and job hunting strategies in place, you’ll land your dream job in no time.
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