Navigating Unemployment and Singleness Amidst a Pandemic: Observations from a Longtime Solo Living Professional

While the coronavirus outbreak has presented unprecedented challenges globally, my personal journey through this trying time offers a unique perspective. At 68, I've led a life filled with independence and self-sufficiency, which, in my experience, has not only buoyed me but also provided valuable insights into my circumstances.

I've spent almost 28 years living alone, navigating the complexities of life without the close companionship of a significant other or immediate family. While this may not be everyone's ideal situation, it has allowed me to cultivate a network of friends, enrich my personal life, and maintain a sense of self-reliance.

Building a Support Network

Over the years, I've built a strong support network through various channels:

Volunteering: I've volunteered for a political campaign in my current city, which allowed me to connect with individuals who share similar values and goals. Career Connections: By recruiting teams for trivia tournaments, I've developed relationships with colleagues and competitors. These connections have persisted even after I moved to my current location. Facebook: I maintain regular communication with friends and acquaintances through social media platforms, ensuring that I stay engaged and informed. Regular Gatherings: Before the pandemic, a small group of us would meet every couple of weeks at a nearby pub to drink, debate, and catch up on current events.

Adapting to Unemployment

As of this writing, I've been unemployed for 2.5 months. However, this is not an unfamiliar situation. Career disruptions have been a part of my professional journey before, and I've always found that with the right determination, opportunities can be found:

Despite the challenges of a global pandemic, I continue to receive calls from recruiters and have had interviews in the past. My background and experience have often led to successful job placements, and I remain optimistic that this pattern will continue. The state's generous unemployment benefits provide financial stability, albeit with a requirement to document a diligent job search each week.

Productivity and Leisure in Isolation

While unemployment brings its own set of challenges, it also provides opportunities for personal growth and leisure:

Reading: I regularly read reputable sources such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Economist. Currently, I am reading A Journal of the Plague Year by Daniel Defoe, enriching my understanding of historical contexts and analytical skills. TV Series: During leisure time, I plan to watch classic TV series like The Knick and The Americans, which I have been eager to catch up on. Cable and Maintenance: No one has entered my apartment since the cable guy 4 weeks ago to swap out my modem and the apartment maintenance guy 2 weeks ago to change my air filter. This period of isolation has allowed me to focus on maintaining my living space without external disruptions.

Challenges and Benefits of Being Unemployed and Single

While every situation has its pros and cons, it's essential to openly acknowledge both the difficulties and the blessings:

The Cons:

Saving and Income: Having to draw down savings and missing out on the daily income from work can be daunting. Additionally, the lack of a partner's income further complicates financial stability during job searches. Age and Job Market: The longer I remain unemployed, the greater the difficulty in securing a new position, especially given my age and the evolving nature of the job market. Social Isolation: The absence of a partner for companionship and emotional support can be challenging, particularly in the current social distancing environment.

The Pros:

Independence: With absolute control over my time and schedules, I am free to make decisions without accountability to others. No Financial Struggles: The absence of financial pressure from in-laws or household disagreements has been a significant relief. Better Working Environment: Working with or under people I truly admire has made my professional life fulfilling, free from the negatives of workplace drama often experienced.

Ultimately, navigating these challenging times has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, self-reliance, and the importance of enjoying the present moment. While there are certainly drawbacks to unemployment and singleness, there are also substantial benefits that contribute to a fulfilling life.