It is so true that you should be prepared for the unexpected. I am currently looking for a new job because of unexpected "funding issues" at work. And now my father is ill.

My father's illness changes things a little. I now feel like I should stay in the DC area to be close.
But, I don't really want to rule out out-of-the-area jobs. I did apply for some out-of-the-area positions that I am really interested in.  I have faith that everything will work out.

By the way, I applied for a position today that required certification/acceptance of this statement: 

I certify that I have read and understand the applicant instructions for this application and that the answers given by me to the foregoing questions and statements made by me are complete and true to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that any false information, omissions or misrepresentations of facts called for in this application, whether on this document
or not, may result in rejection of my application or discharge at any time during my employment.
I authorize the company and/or its agents, including consumer reporting bureaus, to verify any of this information.
I also understand that the use of illegal drugs is prohibited during employment. If company policy requires, I am willing to submit to drug testing to detect the use of illegal drugs prior to and during employment.

I certified without reservation. But I wonder how many people put false information in their applications. Would desperation drive someone to include false information in his resume? I don't think I'll ever reach that point.

While reviewing open positions yesterday I thought to myself, "You really should focus on positions that are a better match and you are more likely to stand out." I think maybe I was wearing my "economist hat" because this line of thinking reminds me of the theory of comparative advantage I learned so long ago. Instead of cost (a country/firm producing something at a comparatively lower cost), it is now about job effectiveness. The logic:
I have a financial/business education and financial analyst experience - something a lot of IT professionals do not have. So I would likely be more effective in a business systems analyst or financial systems analyst position rather than a systems analyst position for a scientific system, for example.

However, I think I will continue to apply for ANY job I think I am qualified for. And I plan to apply for a minimum of four jobs a week.
So that is my basic job search plan/strategy. And I am very happy that I have a plan because plans are important:

"A goal without a plan is just a wish."
- Larry Elder

"Always, always have a plan."
- Rick Riordan

Of course I still need to plan for the worst. I am working on that plan.

"Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised."
- Denis Waitley

"Don't wait until you're in a crisis to come up with a crisis plan."
- Phil McGraw
 

My Journey through Unemployment

I work up this morning with the bright idea to blog about my current unemployment situation - my journey through unemployment. I plan to put those words of wisdom or life lessons from the Lessons Project (http://www.facebook.com/lifelessons1) to good use. The blog should document how easy or difficult it is to apply the quotes, advice etc. at a crucial time.

Today, I am trying to keep my thoughts positive. I started my job hunt just a week ago and so far, no calls for an interview.  At this point, I hope I will find a job soon, but there is some fear. What if it takes months? What if I run out of money?  It is difficult to have only positive thoughts at a time like this.

I recall quotes on positive thinking such as:

"I think if you just look at life in a positive way, positive things will happen."
- Jake Owen

"With everything that's thrown at you, whether it be problems at home, problems at work - whatever - basically, if you remain positive, you can see your way out of that."
- Sean Paul

And the bible verse:
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
(Romans 8:28)

So I know I should get those negative thoughts out of my head. And so I think of all the positives:
- I quickly updated my resume, obtained letters of recommendation, and applied for about 15 jobs in about a week.
- I think I have a strong resume and very marketable skills.
- There is a chance that I will find the perfect position for me, one that will change my life.
That is enough for me.