This archive report was first published on 11 July 2020.
As the world grapples with the unprecedented uncertainty of the pandemic, it's easy to get caught up in our emotions and lose sight of what's truly important. But for some, this week has been a reminder of the harsh realities of job loss and financial struggles.
According to reports, over one million people have lost their jobs locally, leaving hundreds of thousands of men struggling to make ends meet. The sudden loss of employment can be overwhelming, leaving individuals feeling lost and uncertain about their future.
It's a feeling that's all too familiar for those who have been affected by the pandemic. 'I think about all the decisions that I made, the things I could have done better, opportunities that I said no to instead of yes,' says one individual who has lost their job. 'I'm hoping that the next day will be better, but suddenly all days seem the same.'
But to survive the storm, tough decisions must be made. It's time to get real and confront our ego, which can often be our greatest enemy in times of crisis. This means making difficult choices, such as downsizing, cutting back on expenses, and re-evaluating our priorities.
It's not easy, but it's necessary. As one expert notes, 'You need to overcome the trap that you've fallen into, since you started working, when you defined your identity based on the job that you have and the money that you've made.'
It's a hard pill to swallow, but it's a necessary step towards recovery. As one individual who has made the difficult decision to downsize notes, 'It's hard initially, but believe me, you're not the first one to scale down. Your kids will adapt, and hopefully, for your mental health, your wife will too.'
So, what can we do to survive the storm and conquer our ego? It starts with being realistic and taking control of our finances. We must allow ourselves to feel the emotions, but move beyond them and make the changes that we know we need.
It's not about being proud or having the privilege of pride, but about being an adult and making tough decisions. As one expert notes, 'You need to man up and do what's best for you.'
