“In your last two-part answer on birth control, you did not even mention Natural Family Planning (NFP) as an option.  You can find information at: http://www.ccli.org/.  Research has demonstrated that NFP is just as, or in some cases more, effective than the other forms of birth control you listed, without any negative side effects.”

Dear Miss SmartyPants,

I am getting more and more depressed.  I used to have a job I absolutely loved as a writer/producer for an advertising agency.  But a few months ago my job was eliminated due to budget cuts, and I joined the ranks of America’s unemployed.  It’s difficult to find another position in my field, so in order to keep food on the table I took a job in client services for an employment agency.  I cannot tell you how much I hate this job!

But when I tell friends and relatives how unhappy I am, they show no sympathy and tell me to quit complaining.  Even my own parents tell me I am being immature, and that I should ”thank my lucky stars” I have a job at all.  I don’t mean to sound ungrateful.  My job does pay enough for me to pay my bills.  But spending 40 hours a week at a job I hate feels like wasting most of my waking life.  Shouldn’t a young woman have more to look forward to in life than one miserable workday after another miserable workday?

I have a wonderful fiancé and friends, my relationship with my parents and siblings is close, and I should be on top of the world.  But I want my old job back so much!  Of course, I’m not quitting my client services job until something better comes along, but every day I’m more depressed.  And it doesn’t help that I can’t talk to anyone about this, especially my fiancé who tells me to just get over it.  I really need help.  What can I do?

Depressed



Dear Depressed,

In an ideal world, we would all be in jobs we love our entire working life.  But in the real world, sometimes we have to bite the bullet and work ONLY for the money until we have the opportunity to work, not just for the money, but for the sheer enjoyment of doing something interesting, fulfilling, and fun.  You say you need help?  Then help yourself.  

What are you doing to change your situation?  Do you have your resume out there?  Have you looked online to see what might be available in your field?  Have you asked former co-workers, friends, everyone to keep their eyes and ears open for you?  A wonderful new job is not going to magically appear, especially in these difficult times – you must seek it.  Don’t restrict your search only to work as a writer/producer.  There are surely any number of jobs you could be happy doing.  Try, try and try again.  If you feel discouraged, try even harder.  Divert your “complaining” energy to “attaining” energy. 

Your current employment is only temporary, and you get to quit it when you find one you know you’ll be happy in.  So work toward that goal.  No one else can do it for you but you.  Good things rarely come to those who wait.  Get going and make it happen!