I’ve recently received a few emails from people visiting my website, and a few are at their wit’s end. They’ve either exhausted Unemployment or don’t qualify, they’ve tried to find a new job, and now they’re in a state of panic and they risk losing everything they’ve worked so hard for.

There is no easy answer to this, but one thing that I’ve learned from my work with those in transition, is that most of us don’t do very well when our backs are to the wall. So first of all, see what you can do to reduce your expenses. If you can’t pay your rent or make your mortgage payments, talk to your bank. See if there are any ways they can help you. Visit your Congressman’s local office and see what resources they have to help you. And then make a list of the people you know and be very clear about how they might help you. Be open to a temporary job that may feel “below” you. Some money is better than no money and will buy you time to look for a better job.