Photo by MEAX

Originally Posted On: https://bonsaifinance.com/personal-finance/how-service-workers-can-get-through-the-coronavirus/

If you work in the service industry, the chances are good that you’ll be financially impacted by the Coronavirus.

Whether your workplace has been closed entirely or has just seen a significant drop in business, you’re bound to feel the effects when it comes to your paycheck. This is especially true for people with serving jobs who rely on tips.

No matter how stressful your situation seems, try to stay calm. With a little bit of common sense and a few pro pointers, you can get through this!

In this article, we’ll cover strategies for staying healthy, keeping your stress levels low, and managing your money. Plus, we’ll separate fact from fiction when it comes to the Coronavirus and how you’re likely to be affected.

Keep reading for more info.

Editor’s note: If you like this article, feel free to join the conversation and leave your comments at the bottom!
Check out for more on personal finance tips.

What Is the Coronavirus?

No matter where you are in the world, the Coronavirus is the top news story. But do you have the facts?

Coronaviruses are a commonly known cause of colds and upper respiratory infections. Simply put, this type of virus is nothing new. But, COVID-19, short for coronavirus disease 2019, is different.

This viral infection spreads primarily from person to person through close contact. It is also dispersed through coughing or sneezing. And, while it is less common, the Coronavirus can also spread via contact with infected surfaces or objects.

Some people who catch the Coronavirus won’t feel sick at all, but others may experience serious symptoms.

How at-risk you are, depends on your age and overall health. Older people and adults with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease have a higher chance of developing severe complications like pneumonia.

How Does It Impact Serving Jobs?

Scientists are still learning about how the Coronavirus spreads, and so far, it’s unclear whether or not it can be passed via food handling or service. So, many restaurants are closing as a precautionary measure. Others are offering takeaway service or delivery only.

Whether your workplace is still serving or not, this is a stressful time for anybody with a serving job. Don’t panic! You aren’t alone.

There’s no doubt that this will be a challenging time for you, but it’s going to be ok. In the next section, we’ll hook you up with our best advice for making it through the next month or two.

What You Can Do

Don’t Panic! The most important thing you can do for yourself and the people around you is to stay calm. Even if your situation feels quite serious, freaking out won’t help.

Deep breaths, people!

Don’t Get Sick

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you already know that washing your hands is the number one thing you can do to avoid catching the Coronavirus. You should also be mindful of touching your face with dirty hands, especially your eyes, mouth, and nose.

While you might see tons of people wearing surgical masks, this won’t keep you from catching the virus.

Masks should be used by anyone who currently has respiratory symptoms like coughing or sneezing. This can help contain exhaled droplets containing the virus, protecting those around the infected person.

Avoid large crowds and social gatherings for now. Even if you aren’t ready to self-quarantine or socially isolate, it isn’t a good time to hang out at busy bars, clubs, or parties.

If you don’t have any symptoms, don’t go to your doctor’s office or the hospital. It’s important to leave these resources available for those who need them the most. And, you could put yourself at an increased risk for catching the virus by visiting locations where sick people are gathering.

Stay Sane

Have you been glued to the news? Spending hours every day on Facebook and Instagram? The news and social media are saturated with stories about COVID-19.

It’s important to manage how many hours a day you are spending on “screen time,” especially if you’re socially isolating. This can reduce your stress levels and help you get a better night’s sleep. Plus, it will free up time in your day for other activities that you wouldn’t normally have time for.

Try out a free online course, pick up a new hobby, or dedicate a few hours to catching up with family and friends on the phone. Trust us; your brain will thank you for it!

Budget Carefully

If you haven’t already, now is a good time to set a weekly budget. Remember, a budget isn’t any good if you don’t stick to it. So, it’s essential to track your spending week by week.

Don’t panic buy!

No matter what you’ve seen on the news, you don’t need to run out and buy thousands of dollars worth of groceries. Instead, start by taking inventory of what you have at home already. Then, stock up on a few basic and nonperishable items like dried beans and grains.

If you’re struggling to pay the bills right now, reach out.

Major cities are already pausing evictions to protect renters. And, other businesses like the bank and utility companies are likely to work with you. But, only if they know about your situation!

Consider Other Options

If you’re currently without an income, now might be a good time to pick up a side job. Consider something like freelancing from home, starting a blog, or even teaching online if you’re qualified.

Worried that you won’t find that extra source of income? Hang in there. Start by sprucing up your resume or building a LinkedIn profile.

Then, consider your natural skills and talents before you start applying for work. Your time in the service industry has boosted your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. Plus, it’s taught you vital lessons on patience, teamwork, and customer service.

If you’ve explored all the other options and you need money fast, a cash loan might be your best bet. Be sure to borrow from a trusted lender, and make sure you understand all the terms of your loan before accepting it.

Be Prepared

If you work a serving job, and the Coronavirus hasn’t impacted you yet, this is your opportunity to plan and prepare.

Set time aside this week to assess your physical and mental health and examine your finances. Even if you have money in savings, you should set a budget and stick to it. After all, it’s best to be overprepared.

For more helpful financial information, check out our other blog posts. Or, contact us to speak with a service representative. We’re happy to answer your questions, and we’ll do what we can to help improve your financial situation.