We were all told that the economy was improving. Then we saw the most recent unemployment statistics and got a completely different perspective. Many Americans are out of work and still struggling to get by. For example, John has been out of work ever since the manufacturing plant that he worked in was shut down a year ago. Hiring managers often tell him he is overqualified for the positions he is interviewing for. This only leads to more discouragement. Although his wife is a good support to him, he feels like his ego has been crushed. Recently, he read something that helped him improve his way of thinking. He discussed a few points with me that I would like to share with you. These are some ways to survive unemployment.

Look for ways to save money. Stretch your dollar out. In other words, Do your best to make your money last. Find coupons in the newspaper and use them the next time you go to the grocery store. Do you have extra cable channels that you don't use? Turn those channels off. You may not know how long you will be unemployed for, so make every dollar count.

Freelance. Being unemployed doesn't mean there aren't ways to establish an income. You can become a temp with a temporary agency, sell items you're not using, or write articles online to bring in some income. You won't be looking for a job the entire day. Therefore, come up with ways to make some money to get by in your spare time.

Schedule your job search. It can be easy to turn into a couch potato when you ought to be looking for work. Your job search is your job. Make a schedule each day to make phone calls and send your resume to different positions by e-mail. Doing so can help you keep a record of what you applied for so you can follow up with potential employers.

Keep looking for opportunities. Constantly keep an eye out for work possibilities when you go to the store to pick up necessary items or are going out with your friends. Look for "Help Wanted" signs and listen for people who state that they could use some extra assistance. Always remain attentive. You never know when these opportunities might show up.

We've discussed a few ways to survive unemployment. However, in order to be the ultimate unemployment survivor, the best thing you can have around you is your friends and family. Even though it can be easy to stay at home when you're not employed due to a lack of money, make an effort not to. Look for inexpensive things to do so you can relax. Your family and friends are some of the most important people in your life and will always be there for you. Use them as a support system to survive your unemployment.