Getting laid off isn't the end of the world. In fact, it can give you time to hone in on your specific career goals and be more focused than you've ever been. Don't let yourself fall into an unemployment slump; get up everyday with a list of things to do and you'll jump back into the working world before you know it! Read these suggestions on how to live through a layoff:

1. Focus on the "now" and forget the past. Dwelling on how it came to be that you're now sitting on your couch in the middle of the day isn't going to solve the problem that your jobless. What happened has happened; now's the time to think about your future. Trash those grudges against your boss and move forward with your new career choices.

2. Accept the situation and don't think of it as a setback. The layoff may have put you in a lurch for the time being, but you're going places. You certainly won't get anywhere unless you acknowledge your current situation and are at peace with yourself.

3. Seek a support system. Turn to friends and family for help, even if it's just to recharge your motivation.

4. Negotiate the best possible severance package. Two weeks pay for every year of service is standard, but this can vary widely. You may be able to negotiate more.

5. Check out the status of your health insurance. Make sure you find out how much longer your health insurance will cover you. When you've figured out your insurance situation, raise your deductibles so you have lower premiums.

6. Get your money's worth. Try to "sell back" vacation or sick days in exchange for pay if you can.

7. Cut down on expenses. Watch your spending! Stop carrying credit cards, use grocery coupons, don't visit the mall, and cut back on eating out and entertainment (movies, etc.). Also, realize that you have to spend SOME money when you're looking for a job, whether it be poring through newspapers or sprucing up your resume.

8. Make money in the meantime. Consider a garage sale, or marketing some of your skills part-time (music lessons, bookkeeping, typing, etc.). Also think about temp work. It's a great way to make some cash in the meantime, and you never know where a temp job can lead you to... it's another networking outlet to tap into.

9. Keep your retirement fund. Don't liquidate your retirement fund; you'll have to pay taxes and fees if you do. Rather, roll it over into an IRA.

10. Apply for unemployment. Who couldn't use a couple extra hundred dollars a month?

11. Get a letter of recommendation. Ask your former boss to write a recommendation letter that shows the layoff wasn't your fault. Also, review with any coworkers your traits and qualities if you're thinking about using them as a future reference. It's important to keep in contact with your prior job as best you can.

12. Most importantly, KEEP BUSY. Don't let yourself get depressed! Get out of bed every morning, spend time on your home or car, or tackle that special project you never had time for (organize photos, clean the garage, update your address book).

Source -- Family Network
http://www.familynetwork.com