If you still have your job, congratulations – you are one of the lucky ones. The outlook for 2009 is pretty grim with cutbacks and job losses the order of the day. Almost half of all European employers had to lay off workers last year and that figure is set to increase this year with the bounce back not expected till 2011.

This means that you should set a target of holding your job for at least the next two years when things may pick up. The stress the current environment is causing people to become restless, irritated, and fearful of the future. Kerry Dison, specialist in human resources at the O’Brien institute in London has these essential tips to get you through.

Set healthy goals – For example, do some exercise everyday. This is very important to your well being and giving you a sense that you are doing something positive with your health. Try to eat well.

Have a healthy attitude – Try to avoid falling into the trap of becoming cynical and over-pessimistic. Janet Richardson of the Behavioural Research Institute in Brussels believes that this can become dangerous. “It can lead to a downward spiral that affects the way you think and way others perceive you”, says Janet. “Treat cynicism like you would treat a cancer”

Set monthly targets Commit to setting monthly goals at word that show you that you are serious about providing your employer with the best value possible. This will give you more visibility and help you avoid the cut if/when it comes.

Enhance your skills – Now is the time to get as much experience as you can. Read publications, attend all the courses available and become an authority in your field. Take advantage of any courses available to you.

Ensure your work benefits the whole of your organisation – Take on more responsibilities around the workplace. “In any workplace, your value is your worth to the organisation as a whole,” says Karen Staunton of the Walis Institute of technology. “You can dodge a bullet by being more proactive, epically when it comes to tasks no one else wants.”

Examine your finances – It may be too late when you lose your job to tidy up your finances. if you can, try to have a budget so you can survive 5-7 months without work if possible. If this is not possible, look at cutting the fat out of your expenditure and try to live lean now.

Believe in yourself – It is important to believe that you will pull through these difficult times. “I see a big difference in folks when they decide to adopt a positive mental attitude to actually believe they can and will succeed.,” says Catherine Nevin a recruitment head hunter. “Train your mind to seceded with positivity, and your body will follow. This is vital to your well being.