Job Loss – Stages and Strategies to Cope With It

Are you one of the many talented and competent professionals who has suddenly been the victim of a layoff or termination from the company? As you struggle with the fear of losing financial stability, you may also find yourself on an emotional roller coaster. Knowing the best ways to deal with job loss will help you regain dignity and self-esteem and move forward in your search for a new job with confidence and optimism.

Grieving process

Losing a job follows the stages of grievance similar to the death of a close friend or relative. Initially, you may have reacted to the news of your job termination with shock and disbelief. Often this grievance stage is followed by strong emotions of anger, fear, or sadness. You may secretly blame yourself for the termination, no matter how irrational your reasons may be, or feel that all the quality time and effort you put into your job was not appreciated. People respond to job loss in different ways, but during this time it helps to surround yourself with people who are supportive and non-judgmental.

Work and Identity

It’s important to realize that in our culture, many of us define part of who we are by what we do in the workplace. When you first meet people, one way to get to know them is by asking them questions about what they do. Since losing your job, you may feel a loss of identity. Isolation combined with a general confusion about your current worth in the world can cause depression or a sense of shame and embarrassment. As long as you acknowledge and acknowledge these feelings, you will be able to get through this difficult period and eventually move on.

The crisis as an opportunity

While you may be upset about losing your job, you may be surprised to find that this transition period can be a unique opportunity to carefully assess your experience, talents, and skills and brainstorm new career and lifestyle options that potentially they can bring more satisfaction and reward than your previous job.

How to start moving forward

Accept the range of emotions you might feel as a result of losing your job. If you find that you are experiencing severe depression, loss of sleep and appetite, lack of energy and focus, or intense sadness and anxiety, seek the help of a mental health professional.

Take stock of your financial situation, including severance pay, unemployment benefits, health care, and savings. Make sure you clearly understand the stipulations and seek out experts if you need additional support and resources.

Consider hiring a career counselor or coach who can work with you to carefully assess your experience, skills, and values ​​and help you find viable career or job options, as well as a plan of action to achieve your goals. Especially in this current economy, it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to find a new job.

Stay professionally active by building and maintaining your network. Meet up with former colleagues for lunch or coffee, attend conferences or workshops, or participate in professional association events. These contacts could eventually come in handy as you begin your job search.

Consider taking a non-credit class or a credit-bearing course to enhance your knowledge and professional credentials. This will also keep you stimulated and energized.

Volunteer. The opportunity to give back, even in a small way, can be very fulfilling and rewarding, and you will benefit from using your time constructively.

Exercise, Diet and Meditation. This goes without saying, but especially during difficult periods, a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in fighting depression and keeping you motivated.

Finally… live your life even if you have a limited budget. There are many inexpensive ways to maintain your interests and keep your mind active. Think of your situation as temporary and imagine a better future.