Develop Useful Hobbies

Instead of spending so many hours watching the TV - why not work on a hobby?

There are so many things that can be done such as crafts, repairs, building things that can actually be resold in order to bring extra money into your home.

My grandmother was 61 when I was born.  There is not a day that I don't remember her crocheting.  She was very good and often sold some of the items that she made.

Knitting has made a come back in the last couple of years, not only is it good to know, but also can bring additional income into your home.

Jewelry makers, candle makers, bakers,  are usually always at craft shows selling their creations.

There are the people that make wreaths and floral designers.

One of the more interesting ideas that I saw at the home show last year, was a local honey bee farmer selling his honey.

Farmers markets are a way to sell your fresh produce if you can garden.

Hunting and Fishing can provide food for your family.  Just make sure you have the necessary licenses.

Repairs are another option - my mother was a seamstress.  Every month or more often if needed I was sent down the block to a man who sharpened knives and scissors.  He would sharpen her scissors for a couple of bucks and had a steady stream of business.

These are only some of the options, be sure not to violate any of your local zoning laws.  These are suggestions to help increase the money coming into your home, not to cost you more in fines.

Looking for a Job: Networking

In this economy, Networking is not what it used to be.

Networking was once considered a group of professionals that would get together once a month, but now the game has changed.

Networking may now be simply anyone you know, and you would be surprised at how many people you know.

Social Networking is another place to look for jobs.  Facebook, MySpace and the other dozen or so sites.  I would not suggest posting your resume, but let your friends know you are looking for a job and what type of work you do and ask for suggestions or contacts.  Use Twitter to let everyone know you are looking for work and what type.

For instance, I work in Banking and Financial Services.  I have professional contacts through The American Society of Financial Service Professionals.  I have many people that I meet in women's groups that involve banking.  Other professions, involve different types of meetings.

My ex-husband was a sheet metal mechanic and while he did not belong to professional organizations, he did have contacts.  The companies that installed their lave, their grinder, their laser, and other machines they used knew companies that were either hiring or going in the wrong direction.  Their metal suppliers knew who was ordering and who was not.  And while these companies would not release information on their customers, they might tell someone where to check.  It's all about the way it is asked.

Another way is to look at where government bids are being awarded.  Usually, if a bid is being rewarded to a company, then they will have work.  Go to the company and talk to them, leave your resume (usually online) this way they have your name.  Online - check the "about us" section of the company.  They will sometimes post their company officer's names (remember HR is the last person you want to make contact with, unless of course you are a HR professional).

Check with friends, fellow church members, drinking buddies, etc...  Someone may drop a name or company that may be hiring.

Good luck!