4 Tips to Help Survive A Job Loss

The loss of a job can be pretty scary. Whether it's a company downsizing or you've been fired without any warning, losing a job can be terrifying. Believe me, I've been there.  And it's not pretty. Sometimes it can be downright ugly.  But it can also bring unexpected gifts, like an opportunity to take a breather and take care of yourself.  Being free from your job can also motivate you to finally do what you’ve always wanted to do. Being laid off or fired could be your golden opportunity to change your life for the better.
 
But how do you move past the feelings of devastation and take advantage of the situation? I'm glad you asked.  Here are my top tips for surviving a job loss!

• Don't panic. Remind yourself that you’ve successfully made it through tough times before. Remember, too, that you’re not alone. Others are going through what you’re experiencing right now. You can focus better and think more clearly when you consciously keep from giving in to panic. Practice deep breathing and meditating. Listen to music that calms you. Exercise and eat well.   Then compose a list of tasks you may need to get done - like review your finances and apply for unemployment benefits or other assistance you may need; refresh your resume; or reach out to potential contacts,  

• Catch your breath. Process what happened — the reason(s) you lost the job. Was it a lay-off, a company down-size, or based on your work performance? Gain an understanding of why it happened. You may even contact your old HR office to determining what's in your personnel file so there are no surprises as you move forward with job interviews.  Allowing yourself time to think will help you move forward and leave regrets behind.

• Give yourself a break. Regardless of the reason, tell yourself that it was somehow destiny that you be “released” from the job. Don't blame yourself harshly.  We have all had moments at work that we don't feel great about.  You will recover.  Even if there were something you could have done differently, derive the life lesson and forgive yourself.

• View your situation as a fresh start. Consider that book closed. You’re now beginning a brand new story. Be optimistic. It’s so good for the soul to be able to go down a new path in your journey. Who doesn’t love a “do-over?”  See the silver lining. Think about the fact that any difficulties you had at your former job are gone now. You’re looking at those old challenges in the rearview mirror. Ignite your passion for the future.  
  

 
Losing your job can be the first step toward discovering the life you’ve dreamed about for years. This could be a great time to think about following your dreams or even starting a business.  I know that my first consulting business got started when I lost a job over a decade ago and couldn't find work.  It was scary and exciting.  And it laid the foundation for what I'm doing now with Envision Career Success.  So, a job loss can definitely lead to future success.

Ever had a job loss?  How did you deal with it?  Did you consider it a blessing?  What great things happened to you as a result?  Share your thoughts with me below!