DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a serious TV buff, but I am not into vampires and horror and stuff like that. For the past few weeks, that seems to be all that is on TV. I’m sick of it. I know that Halloween is a big celebration and all, but don’t the networks know that not everybody is into this gory content? What am I supposed to do while all this stuff is messing up my vibe? – Against the Gore, Salt Lake City

DEAR AGAINST THE GORE: Now’s the time for you to turn off the TV and do something else. Honestly, as much as what my father calls “the idiot box” can be engaging, distracting and a huge time consumer, it also should not be your primary source of entertainment. Get up, go out and explore your town. Or stay home and read a book. Seriously, you should mix up your entertainment so that you aren’t reliant upon TV.

Finally, you can also write to your favorite TV networks and complain about the narrow programming during this season and request the genres that you prefer. You never know what will happen!

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DEAR HARRIETTE: I feel like I’m having my version of a midlife crisis. I lost my job a few months ago, and I haven’t figured out what to do next. I’m in my early 50s, and I look good for my age. I have been very successful in my career, but everything is changing now. I feel like such a loser. My job was filled by a recent college grad who, I’m sure, is good and who costs less. I have no idea how to compete with young people, nor do I want to. I just want to be able to take care of myself and earn a decent living. What should I do? – Over the Hill and Hopeless, Dallas

DEAR OVER THE HILL AND HOPELESS: Don’t give up yet, even though the future is uncertain. Search for a talent scout in your field who may be able to help you identify companies that are looking for people with your level of expertise and experience. With professional support, you may be able to find a job. It may also be wise to evaluate all of your skills to see if there is another career path that may be more viable. This can seem scary, but change is what life is all about. What’s key is for you to find support so that you don’t have to do it alone. Another source of guidance may be AARP’s Life Reimagined program. It helps people figure out how they want to plan out their future. This program has been extremely effective for many people who are searching for what they are going to do next. It may help you, too.

— Lifestylist and author Harriette Cole is president and creative director of Harriette Cole Media. You can send questions to [email protected] or c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.