I need some advice, please!!!

United States
April 23, 2009 9:32am CST
Hi, everyone. I just dont know where should I start and I really dont know what I am thinking either. Everyday, my life seem to be mean less to me... all i do is working and take care of my children. Before economy turned upside down, my life style was happy all the time, but now my husband has no job and I am the only one is working to support my family. It seem that all my paychecks are just enough for bills, and sometimes is not even enough... I have no where to turn, I really want to come to work with happy feel instate of worry all the time. I really need your advice to make myself happy while this matter stand by me. I want to make my life is a little meaning even my pay check is just enough for bills. Please give me some advice. Thank you for spending time reading my post
5 people like this
19 responses
• India
9 May 09
Don't worry dear everything will be all right. bad times come to tell us that we will be happy again. even my economy is down but do i look sad? hell no :-) try some home based business like teaching kids or a computer coaching institute.
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
24 Apr 09
Hi smileonstar! I have not read all the responses so forgive me if you have heard it already! The first thing I would do is sit your husband down and explain to him that he is to make job hunting his full time job right now, no excuses, you will not get any relief until there is more money coming in and clearly you are doing all you can! Secondly try hard to focus on what you do have instead of what you feel may be missing, find things to be grateful for every night before you go to sleep; I don't know if you are spiritual or not, but a prayer or two will not go astray. When I feel blue I sometimes try to imagine how it could be worse and then I begin to feel grateful again! I feel that once your husband starts working things will improve and you may even be able to cut your hours back, who knows? If he is not willing to listen to you and take some positive action I would go and stay at my parents or a friend for a while to show him you mean business but I'm sure that he loves you and will take the time to hear you out.
• United States
24 Apr 09
Thank you for all the advice. If you talk about my husband then let me open a little to you. He is a nice guy and care about children, but one thing about him is he is careless about that is around him. I dont know what to explain but that is the way he is. Everytime, I talk to him... he seem to wake up but for a while it gone again. Nothing can't hold him in one place or stay focus on one thing... he will forget and forget. And about leaving home to stay with my parents, that will not happen to me... cuz my parents are in different country and I dont realized on them either... they never know how hard I am and I never plane to tell them either. I love them so much and I dont want them to think or worry about me. My life is already start with this man and two children, so I have to move on my own and find solution. One day, I wish him to wake up from this dream and know that I am still sitting next to him, support him and care about him... and I want him to restart to realize how much I care and how much I love this family and him. But for now, I have to move on my own and think about my children first. I brought them to this world and I have to show them the road and I can't let it be like this forever. I strongly believe, that God won't watch me like this forever. Good thing will happen to good people
1 person likes this
@paula27661 (15811)
• Australia
25 Apr 09
I admire your faith. I am sure God is watching and will take care of all of you. Good luck to you and your family, keep us posted on how you are going.
@KrauseHome (36447)
• United States
25 Apr 09
Well it is getting harder and harder for everyone even when 2 people like my husband and I have steady jobs to make ends meet. It continues to seem like everything continues to go up, and no end in sight. All I can say it besides learning to pinch pennies, it could be worth your interest for you and your husband to think of ways you can offer your services for pay, or make and sell something to earn some extra $$ as well. Personally I know it can be a hard thing, but you need to remember when there's a will, there is a way. And if you are a Praying person, Pray and Trust God, and in time you will be able to look back and know it was worth it all. Wishing you the Best!!
• United States
25 Apr 09
I understand and that what i do everyday, praying to God to help and direct me to somewhere and somehow to good future, and no more worry. I keep everything and try to pinch every penny I have too... Thanks I think I am not the only one going through this situation right?
1 person likes this
@tashanda (58)
• United States
24 Apr 09
Sweetheart calm down. What you need is some alone time. Dont worry about the money covering the bills try to feel some relief in the fact that you can cover your bills. Talk with your husband about picking a day where only he handles the kids while you take that time to do something that is relaxing to you. What is happening is your feeling overwhelmed by the situation. Take a step back each day and review the good things in your life at that time. It works trust me. I know its hard not to think about the what ifs and the comfort you had in the past when he was working but you have to find away to counter the negative feelings that the stress is building up inside of you.If push comes to shove see a therapist. I know that some people don't think highly of therapist but one can help in situations such as these a great deal. You don't have to take any medications just go in and talk your way through your problems they may be able to give you an option that you didnt know you had. Either way dont wait to do something because eventually itll start effecting your relationship with your children.
• United States
24 Apr 09
Thanks, I dont take medication and I dont want to go crazy either. I still have my children to realize on. Of course, I am stress and I can't take it away easily but I have you all here to help. My husband doesn't know how to take care of that baby, but my other daughter then he knows. Kids are not the problem, I dont mind to take care of them while I am working... however, something else that is bother me. well, relax is my main goal to do now. I feel some release already and thank you so much.
1 person likes this
• India
23 Apr 09
Please do not worry about your husband. He is going through a lean patch and he needs your support during this hour. During this time of recession, there are other ways to make money online without any investment and your husband can surely make some money by that. When you are free please send me an message i will be more than happy to shre it with you.
• United States
23 Apr 09
I always be there for him and always give him support... I hope he feels that same way too. Online working is the mean goal i want to do while im free from working. I hope you give me a good advice.
1 person likes this
• India
24 Apr 09
I have started a discussion with the same topic. Please check it out and add me as your friend so that I can send you an message.
@tzaddi (395)
• Philippines
24 Apr 09
a quote from a not so intelligent creature.. "in the end, everything's gonna be alright and if it's not alright, it's not yet the end." -patrick starfish smileonstar don't be sad and smile..:)
• United States
24 Apr 09
of course, I am smile... Thanks for all the words to me.
1 person likes this
• Philippines
24 Apr 09
I also have the same problem. I don't have children but I have family to support to because I am the provider.I'll do the paying of bills and my salary is not enough. I am still finding some partime jobs available in my country to add to my salary. You know what I do, I'll always pray. I talk to God, I ask for my specific needs. I ask Him, God I my money is not enough, please tell me where can I find it. Help me to have other jobs to earn additional money and to save in for the future. I always do it everynight.I also ask him to lessen my temper when things gone wrong because I always felt that I am useless when I can't find a solution once I have a problem. After that, when I woke up everything will became different I became positive to live again , to fight again, and when things turns wrong again I pray again. But I am not just praying without action, I know God will guide me on this so I am still looking.
• United States
24 Apr 09
I am totally understand how you feel and how you go through cuz it is my truth experience. This is a Big, very Big ocean that I have to swim alone and along with people. However, I always stand and stand until the end of my life. Sometimes, I think "Whatever, and I dont care any more. All I know myself and my family" I never speak a word or complain anything to my parents or my husband. I used to think so much and worry so much about my husband... cuz he seem not to care about what is going on. After I learned about him for a while, then I realized that I dont really care or think too much ... I just do it as much as I can. God will help us get through this and we have to get up and stand as a Rock for our family.
1 person likes this
• China
24 Apr 09
Well,difficult is arise in our life,what important we to do is just dealing with the hard time,coping with the change,yes,your husband now hasn't work,but he can go out hant job,you shoundn't feel tough,maybe next time you'll ok.
• United States
24 Apr 09
Life is hard and life could be easy is depend on how you are. I believe that God draw me for. Right, I shouldn't feel tough... think something easy right? I will try and thank you so much for your words.
1 person likes this
• China
24 Apr 09
Before you go .you may think twice and make a list .it will helpful can help you to know what to do next ,it is a good way to save time ,sometimes you will find your life are busy but not very well .
• United States
24 Apr 09
I will do what you said. Thank you
1 person likes this
• India
24 Apr 09
Dont worry shortly ur husband get job.Onthat time you spend your salary with imporent works only like child education,you must fulfil the child wanted.Then stop the savings for some month.But every reason dont buy the money from any person with intrset or without interset it's too bad to future.What ever you get salary you manage your family.This point only i know. I dnot know this is good or bad i am not so aged i am 20's only that why.ok take care of ur husband and child.Thanks my lot.
• United States
24 Apr 09
That's what I wish for you... hopefully he gets a job soon. you are still young, and you should think more before you step in family situation. Don't make the same mistake like me. I married too young and now all the responsible is up to me. Thank you for your kindly words
1 person likes this
• Philippines
24 Apr 09
I think the first thing you should do is try to see the most important things that you need at home and for yourself.Try cost cutting with the bills and try to take each day one step at a time.Also,don't worry too much and try to enjoy your work.Everything will be okay!
• United States
24 Apr 09
You are right, why should i think of something that make me feel bad all day right? children and husband are important and they are bring sunrise to my world. Thank you and I will try to cut out what I dont need. Thank you for your advice
1 person likes this
@fergus (817)
• Ireland
24 Apr 09
Hi smileonstar, Love that name buy the way I don,t think theres anything i and say to take that of your shoulders your finding it hard like us all. You have us as well to turn to your not on your own. You have to take one day at a time thats what i do i know its hard try not to think that fare ahead into the furture. The furture is not yours yet to worry about the day your liveing in is.
• United States
24 Apr 09
Hi, first thing I want to say "Thank you". You and others are my world here, once I post this msg, everyone seem to care about me, not even me, everyone that has trouble to think and life. Future is still coming but it is totally slow on me. Do you want to know what I see now? Blank and black, it is so dark and that I can't reach... I wish and hope everyday to see sunrise in my way, I still praying while I am typing this msg to you. You know what I want? I want to come to work feeling happy, even if I dont have so much money like others. Now, I will do what you say... and I hope one day I will write back to you and say, Hey! I make it
1 person likes this
• China
24 Apr 09
hi,please do not have that feeling.you should be proud of your job and little children,let them know their mom is such a great person
• United States
24 Apr 09
Oh, that's very nice of you. Thank you... I hope my husband and my children realize the same way you are. You know being a woman is not easy, I dont know about other woman but for this woman, I try everything to make my family work. I do man work most of the time, as long as they know how to do then I could do. If you involve in my life just like my children do then you will know how hard my life is and believe me, No one know about it even my own husband.
1 person likes this
@plddre79 (161)
• United States
23 Apr 09
For what its worth, the following guidelines might be of some help. I certainly hope so. Sleep as much as your body demands - between six and ten hours a day. Eat a complete and balanced breakfast, an average-size dinner, and a light supper. Also, experts widely recommend that you reduce your intake of foods high in fat, limit the amount of salt you use and after age 40 reduce your consumption of milk and sugar. Try to find time for quiet meditation. reduce stress further by maintaining contact with nature.I would also recommend if you are spiritually incline to ask for a free bible study with Jehovah's Witnesses. Don't let idle hearsay stop you from contacting them. They are loving and kind people and can bring much happiness in to your home and marriage. Do it before you have a major break-down.
• United States
24 Apr 09
Thx for the advice. I love all kinds of words you gave me, and i really want to sleep with 8-10 hours a day but i can't cuz i have two small children. The little never let me sleep well; 4-5 hours a day is more than enough for me. I eat healthy food and one thing that sound weird to me is about overeat. If I worry or stress about something, then I just don't want to eat or drink anything beside sitting down and find solution. But these have waken me up and I really appreciate you so much.
1 person likes this
• United States
23 Apr 09
This is not a easy response because what you are going through is very hard and I can tell you its going to get better but I know you want a break through right now, but its going to take some time. I went through this 4 years ago. I was laid off and lost everything I felt there was not way to get back on my feet because with the lost of my job I lost my car. and it seemed friends who were my friends were not there any more... but with so much prayer I started to see the light. things started opening up for me. slowly things started to come together so their is hope for tomorrow but you can't loose hope today... it will not last always trust me things will change and you will be in a better position after the trail. stay optimistic, budget really good, and cut out all things in which are of no use... and you will be ok :o)
• United States
23 Apr 09
Thanks for sharing your personal experience. I totally understand how you feel during that difficult time. you are right, life is not complete lost but i dont know when i will find the road out and when will everyone understand my feeling. Nothing is stopping me and I will take your advice to put on my list. Thanks
1 person likes this
@earnnings (1325)
• India
23 Apr 09
Sorry buddy. I want to advice you never take it to heart even if the world turned upside down. You have kids and you need to take care of them, if you feel that you are nothing then your children those little buds feel very hard. I agree with you that this period is really hard for the budget and income. But, you can spend the money in a ordered way by which you can cut out the un-necessary expenditures and maintain the budget. If you are depressed then everything in the world looks like terrible to you and please avoid such things and take care of your health and children. Good time will come do not get panic..
• United States
23 Apr 09
I know my children are the mean thing that I need focus on... sometimes, I ask myself If I am going crazy or what... you have no idea how much hour I work per day and what I do to get this stupid money(12-15 hours a day) that not even include hour I take care baby and cooking too. My husband? he help me cleaning up and take care of the kids sometimes, but most likely I do. of course, I cut off every un-necessary thing that why I still have my home and my cars and everything I own. I feel so stupid to get my life like this and I dont want my children to walk in the same road as me. I want them to be happy and healthy and have enough money to spend. thanks for your comments
1 person likes this
• India
23 Apr 09
hey u r in critical situation.....if ur husband not doing work and tell him to take care of ur childrens and home then u can do what ever u want....otherwise in ur mom house leave ur childrens for few months u both try for better job after getting job again u can take care of ur childrens this is my opinion frined
• United States
23 Apr 09
I know what you mean at this point, but I want to have two income that make my family more meaning. Only one income is not enough for us and our future... it is ok for us now but I want something more than this... thanks
1 person likes this
@myl999 (2093)
• India
23 Apr 09
please do not feel depressed it is a challenge to accept..life is like that with a lot of ups and downs i felt this when i lost my job 12 years ago ..i have two sons eventually my spouse supports us but i myself still struggling now i have changed my track and seeking opportunities to work from home using my pc and net..and i did care for my kids and family...so do not worry this phases will pass and u will have good time again..now try to find a good job for your spouse..now one of u have to stay at home so to take care of your children how many are there?decide whatever suits u...life will surely smile to u again..i know this words may be meaningless as this is a dollar world and money rules but patience and other qualities have their own importance in life...
• United States
23 Apr 09
Thanks for the advice, it is really meaning to me. I know one of us have to stay home and take care of children. My husband own a wholesale dealer, which mean he sale cars outside the United States. He corporates with his brothers, however the car sale is totally slow and all my money are stuck with cars. He doesn't know anything else beside car... he is also looking for job too but no one call him in yet. most of the time he comes and helps me at my work place. I would love to work online if you give me a good site. I want him to replace my work place and I stay home take care of children and work online. thanks again.
1 person likes this
• Philippines
23 Apr 09
i have this associate and she always complain about everything, her computer, her headset, her station, she is also the one who is not productive in our work. We and some other are just making fun of her, we told her that its only trials and one day the world will turn around and she will be better in a few days. Everytime i feel that negative emotions, i always compared people who are less fortunate. think about it this way, who have your family, you have a job and you can still eat three times a day, and you have all the time to change your life for the better, compared to other people, they dont have job because of the economic crisis. People who don't have food to eat, kids on the street because they don't have family to take care of them. To sum it up, you still one of luckiest people and you should be thankful about it.
• United States
23 Apr 09
I thankful too, to everything that I have so far... however, I never stop working... I work just like machine and I am worry about my future life. Am I going to end up like this the rest of my life? i know most people doesn't have job and no food to eat, but do you desire this much time of work with just bills? hehehhee... that's make me want to laugh out loud. well, now I feel better cuz a lot of people here care about me and give me all the good advice. Thanks.... life is totally hard and I hope and wish someday, I will end up with hopeful and rich
1 person likes this