Thinking Outside the Box: Finding Work in a Tough Economy

By Nomzamo | Elevate Finance Partner

This morning, I had a heartfelt conversation with my mother about how so many people in South Africa are struggling to make ends meet. With the rising cost of living, VAT increases, and job scarcity, hardworking individuals are feeling the pressure.

Then, my husband and I discussed a recent report about the overwhelming number of qualified doctors struggling to find work despite the country’s healthcare sector needing more hands. A harsh reality that reflects the deep employment crisis.

This situation is not unique to the medical field; many skilled and educated individuals are finding themselves in a job market that simply doesn’t have enough opportunities. The question is:

🔹 What do you do when the traditional job market is failing you?
🔹 How do you earn a living when jobs are scarce?

My response is simple yet critical: We all need to start thinking outside the box.

Adapting to a Changing Job Market

The reality is, the economy is shifting. We can no longer rely solely on formal employment. If we don’t adapt quickly, we risk being left behind. I personally chose to enter the virtual space, allowing me to build my own path instead of waiting for opportunities.

But what about those who don’t have access to WiFi, a laptop, or other resources? How do they make it?

Practical Solutions for Those Struggling to Find Work

If you or someone you know is struggling, here are a few practical ways to move forward:

1️⃣ Leverage Skills You Already Have

What are you good at? Baking, hairstyling, fixing things, tutoring? Instead of waiting for a job, start offering services within your community.

🔹 Example: A neighbor of mine lost her job but started styling hair from home—now she’s fully booked every weekend!

2️⃣ Embrace Digital Opportunities (Even Without a Laptop!)

Even with just a smartphone, you can:
✅ Start a YouTube channel (teach a skill, review products, or share experiences)
✅ Offer social media management (help small businesses post online)
✅ Become an online tutor or proofreader
✅ Sell secondhand items on Facebook Marketplace

3️⃣ Join Local Community Programs & Learn a New Skill

There are many free and low-cost training programs in trades like plumbing, carpentry, coding, and farming. Check with local community centers, churches, and NGOs for opportunities.

4️⃣ Look for Remote Work & Side Hustles

Many companies now offer remote customer service, data entry, and virtual assistant jobs. If you have access to a shared workspace with WiFi, you can start applying.

✨ Need help with online work ideas? Check out my blog for resources!

Faith, Strength, and Taking Action

I know how tough this season is. But you are NOT alone. God sees your struggles, and He has a plan for you. Sometimes, all it takes is one step of faith to see a breakthrough.

📖 “But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” — 2 Chronicles 15:7

If you feel discouraged, keep this verse in your heart:

📖 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11

Books to Inspire & Guide You

Here are 3 must-read books from my Amazon store that will help you think differently about making money and creating opportunities:

📚 The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Livinghttps://amzn.to/3QsyXNG

📚 Rich Dad’s Cashflow Quadrant: Guide to Financial Freedom https://amzn.to/41n2u1c

📚 The Side Hustle Guide: Build a Successful Business and Earn Extra Income

👉🏽 Check out my full list here: https://linktr.ee/ElevateFinance

Final Thoughts: You Can Do This!

If you’re struggling, I want you to know—you have options. It may not be easy, but taking even the smallest step can open doors you never expected.

💬 What are some creative ways you’ve found to earn money? Let’s encourage each other in the comments below!

✨ Follow my blog for more financial tips and resources: https://elevatefinancepartners.online/

#ElevateFinancePartner #ThinkOutsideTheBox #WealthCreation #FaithAndFinances #FinancialFreedom

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