Navigating the Ups and Downs: Healthily Managing a Layoff
Pancake says, it’s all going to be ok, hang in there.
Alright gang, I am now a part of the layoff club (wahoo, fuck, now what?). Instead of wallowing in my sorrow and eating a pile of chocolate (which I plan to do later), I will write something helpful not only for myself but for others impacted by this. So, coming from someone who is anxious about literally walking around the neighborhood, this is truly a nightmare come true. So here’s what I suggest we do together!
First, let's just feel all the feelings and fucking swear at the top of our lungs (I usually do this at the top of hills during my trail runs like a mad man, but it’s up to you where you want to do this). Then, we dust the shit off our ass and get up and move. This can be done in a few ways: cleaning, making your bed, writing up a routine, applying to a few jobs. The key is to just act and not THINK. I swear to god if you start thinking, I will come over there and take you out on a run or a walk.
NEXT, we keep as much of our previous routine intact as possible because it was working! The area you used to work in can now be used for other things like learning a new skill, building something, or creating value in your life that brings you joy. Believe me, this is going to help tremendously. I was unemployed for 6 months once and made a ton of really ugly furniture out of scrap wood. It was so satisfying, and I learned how to build things, which is super fun. The key is to keep your mind sharp and ideally make something because you’ll get a really good feeling at the end.
Ok, now we are in the thick of it. You are gonna get a shitload of rejection emails. Fuck 'em, don’t give them any energy. I think of them as indicators that it wasn’t a good match rather than taking it personally. Now that you’ve gotten over all those, you get some interviews and some offers. Make sure you read through my other posts about those, and I’ll link them below if you are interested.
Ok, well, that was it, not too bad, right? Here’s a bit of a summary that’s organized so you can make your own little checklist if you want. Hang in there, use your connections and people who love and care for you. Don't be alone if you can avoid it, be safe, and know that you are still loved and valued. It’s just the fucked up system we live within that allows for misappropriation of funds to go unpunished by those who continue to do that and we are just the person impacted at the end of the pipe :)
Please reach out to me anytime if you need any support that I can offer.
Accept Your Emotions
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s natural to feel a range of emotions after being laid off. Allow yourself to process feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration.
Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a professional counselor. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly therapeutic and can provide you with different perspectives.
Take Care of Your Health
Maintain a Routine: Try to stick to a regular schedule. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep are crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices such as meditation, yoga, or simple breathing exercises can help in managing stress and anxiety.
Financial Planning
Assess Your Finances: Take an honest look at your financial situation. Create a budget that accounts for your essential expenses.
Explore Benefits: Investigate unemployment benefits or severance packages offered by your former employer and understand how to make the most of them.
Invest in Professional Development
Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Reflect on your skills and experiences. Updating your professional profiles can be a stepping stone to new opportunities.
Learn New Skills: Consider taking courses or certifications that can enhance your employability in your field or a new one.
Network and Explore Opportunities
Connect with Others: Reach out to former colleagues, attend industry events, or join professional groups. Networking can open doors to new job opportunities.
Be Open to New Paths: Sometimes a layoff can be an opportunity to explore a different career path or even start your own business.
Stay Positive and Forward-Looking
Set Small Goals: Create attainable goals for each day or week. This can be as simple as applying to a certain number of jobs or learning a new skill.
Practice Positive Affirmations: Remind yourself of your strengths and past achievements. This can boost your confidence and outlook.
Reflect and Reassess
Evaluate Your Career Path: Consider what you truly want from your career. A layoff can provide an unexpected opportunity to pivot or advance in a new direction.
Seek Feedback: Understanding the reasons behind the layoff can provide valuable insights into your professional growth.
Additional Resources
