As of Thursday (July, 10th 2009), I have been temporarily laid off by my employer. The layoff could last as long as 12 weeks or I could get a call before then to come in an continue working, or I could be receiving severance pay after 13 weeks. Who knows? But what I know is that in the meantime I have to figure out my finances to compensate for this curve ball.
The first thing I did when I left the office was head to the bank and deal with various banking aspects. I stopped my monthly contribution into a growing savings account so that I could access it after my last pay cheque (which is next Friday). I checked to see if I had insurance against a loan I have, but unfortunately it is only insured against disability.
I’ve filled out the online application for Employment Insurance (EI), though I won’t probably hear back from them for a week or two. This will help (hopefully) after my last pay cheque. I can also deposit some of the cheques I still have laying around the house as well.
So What Now?
I can take a little time off. I’m paid up until at least next Wednesday. I’ll have to work out what my expenses are each month and figure out if EI will cover that. Extra spending money will have to be earned on the side by my many talents.
There can be more time for blogging, more time for photography too!
I can go on an animal hunt at Stanley Park as there are new critters hanging out there such as a new resident beaver in Lost Lagoon. I can find out where that River Otter I see really lives. I can check out the 4 Eagle nests that are located in the park too. Who knows, I might even check out some of Stanley Park’s trails too. Perhaps a photowalk around Vancouver is in order?
I can take on more product review opportunities now. I love reviewing product, getting my hands on the latest in technology and writing about this is actually quite fun for me. When I get to keep the products I look at, that’s definitely a bonus.
I can take on some more freelance web design and development jobs as well. If you’re looking for some modifications to your WordPress blog, I can help. If you have a regular website that needs to be updated a bit, I can help with that as well.
I’m not upset at this temporary setback. Life is full of challenges, I just have to roll with them, take them as they come and not give up. I believe things happen for a reason.
What does the future have in store for me? I can’t wait to find out! I’m going to smack this curve ball up over the centerfield fence and out of the stadium!
Mandy JansenJul 10, 2009 at 08:11:25
[Link]
I am so sorry to hear about this new challenge, because changes like this can be overwhelming. That said, I truly admire your positivity.
The shot of the raccoons is adorable!
RaulJul 10, 2009 at 09:24:54
[Link]
So sorry to hear Tyler but you’ll be back on your feet before anyone knows it!
KimmJul 10, 2009 at 10:40:30
[Link]
Sorry to hear about that Tyler. Hopefully it will be a short hiccup in the road of life.
ChantelJul 10, 2009 at 13:32:53
[Link]
Hi little brother!
Sorry about your setback. But maybe now you can go to school sooner like you wanted to?
We’ll talk soon. I had my own shitty day yesterday, but I’m off to Victoria for the weekend. I’ll be in touch once I’m back.
SteveJul 12, 2009 at 02:38:51
[Link]
OMG – I’m really sorry to hear that. My mother used to say “who knows what benefit you’ll get from this”.
You are well known in “the scene”, freelancing can be awesome and when the news spreads chances are not bad that you’ll literally drown in new work!
All the best for you!
DrywJul 14, 2009 at 10:16:14
[Link]
Hey Tyler!
I was surprised that you were let go – - you’ve done so many great things for the company! I’m sure you will put all those skills to good use again in due time though, you have an impressive resume
. As Steve says, I’m sure you will be drowning in work!
Best of luck and stay in touch!
Robb ShireyJul 14, 2009 at 16:49:47
[Link]
Sorry to hear about your job. I know lots of people around because of my hosting business. Shoot me your resume and i’ll show it around. Or at least let me know what you are looking for. I seem to be able to make job hunter and job huntee connections fairly often.
Florida FlooringJul 15, 2009 at 01:13:22
[Link]
As all commentator know challenge quite tough but i would recommend to for it and achieve you are strong person and we knows you can doit batter.
Granite WorktopsJul 16, 2009 at 03:51:11
[Link]
Wow, they’re so cute!
My friend has a couple of polecats that sort of have the same facial markings
Cya
VancityAllieJul 24, 2009 at 15:18:08
[Link]
Oh Tyler, I’m so sorry to hear that. I’ve missed so much while I’ve been away from my Bloglines.
That’s SUCH a bummer. But it happens to everyone in this job market, you know.
Hope everything turns up soon.
Cali Tax LawyerJul 29, 2009 at 03:55:54
[Link]
Sorry to hear about the unexpected job change. I’m impressed at how level headed you were in dealing with the financial planning of the process. Good luck.