These are wonderful suggestions, everyone! So far, everything is ringing true.

Updated list of what I've learned so far:

1) Smile.
2) Hang out w/ friends (if you have them ).
3) Shut off the computer --> Get away from the computer and Get out of the house
4) Retain a daily structure that includes a shower at the beginning of the day -- this is so true, I see a pattern in the last few days where I've been in my bathrobe until late afternoon (or the next day LOL) -- and this seriously hurts my willingness to do #3, getting out of the house.
5) Take a few drives and/or Take a vacation.
6) When not on vacation, Treat the job hunting as a actual part-time job.
7) When not job hunting, Learn about new things that really don't have bearing on anything, except to enrich your mind.

I like it. I'm going to go take my shower now.

Thanks to everyone!

 

I own my own company, I really enjoy what I do, I make very good money, I am constantly learning new things, I solve problems, I feel that I am making a positive contribution to planet earth, and I get out of bed each morning looking forward to going to work. My wife is my bookeeper, computer and computer graphics consultant, and report preparation assistant. She has an office in our offices and we share quality time together that we wouldn't otherwise. I don't need motivation.

 

SteveUCI,

First let me say that I can't relate at all. I worked for one company for 33 years. I never had to look for a job. It was the one I chose after college and I never left. But in today's world, that is like something from before the dawn of man. On the other hand, I can relate as I'm now retired. A week after hitting the big 60 I said screw it and left. I didn't think it would be difficult, since in my 33 years I was never a 'company guy' but more of a pain in the ass. But, now I feel a sense of quilt because I haven't jump into my new world and accomplished my original ideas. Hell, I was going to oil paint and I haven't picked up a brush. I took my shower today at 2PM and laughed at myself doing it. I can totally relate to your sense of coming down and relaxing to the point of wondering. Maybe, in a sense that's not all bad. We all do things for various reasons but sometimes finding out who we are isn't as easy. I remember wanting to be a beach bum in high school.... now I is one, it's just there's no beach close by. My only advice would be to never settle for less than the best experiences you have had. If that's screwing off. fine. If that's working you ass off. fine. If it's some where in the middle. fine. Just set goals to do what works for you, and remember your goals will change as you change.

 

Learn a trade. I'm the kinda guy who likes to know how everything works. The only way is to actually do it. In doing this I've learned practical skills in case things change.

Take up masonary, tiling, plumbing, electrical, auto body painting/repair, roofing, painting... I can go on and o n. All these trades pay good money (if you wanted to work it) and are always needed. Take this time to better yourself.

 

steve you could come to my casa and play vice city...

 

Steve, when I was laid off several years ago, I received two months severance pay. I was bound and determined to get two pay checks at the same time for as long as I could. It took me six of the eight weeks, but I made it. That's what motivated me. It was also the lack of a paycheck that kept me going.

I'll tell you that looking for work is very hard work. I put in many more hard hours looking than I would have with a normal job.

Good luck,
Bob

 

I'm down! After Monday of this next week I'm free.