Losing Your Job and Finding Yourself

These are hard times and many are being let off of their jobs. Knowing why losing a job makes us feel so wretched is key to learning how to deal with it. The emotional turmoil we undergo when and after losing a job creates the same grief as losing a loved one. Losing a job is a challenge, but it’s not an impossible one. Master some ways to survive and thrive

• Deal with the grief

The University of Washington’s Counseling Centre emphasises the importance of grieving: “It allows us to ‘free-up’ energy that is bound to the lost experience – so that we might re-invest that energy elsewhere.” Even if your job search needs to begin immediately, allow yourself to experience the different emotions so that you can move on. Journalling or talking to a friend can help.

• Be yourself

The more transparency you have on who you are, the less you will feel like losing a job means you have lost yourself. It allows you to establish what kind of job you want. If your financial situation allows, take a learning course – either to polish up on current skills or to discover something entirely new. Your interllect and education can never be taken away from you, and it shows motive and work ethic to possible employers.

• Take care

Schedule time for self-care. Walk around the block, or exercise at home, make healthier food choices and get enough sleep. You will be better prepared to put your all into the job hunting if you are thinking renewed and excited. Keep in mind that this part of self-care means protection against failure. 

• Schedule your life

The loss of a cycle because of losing a job is a significant stress factor, so it’s essential to set up a new routine and stick to it to make your job-hunting day a lot easier. Wake up on time, get dressed, have a schedule for job searching and studies, take a lunch break, set aside time for connecting with people, in a nutshell, make finding a job your job.

• Stay connected

Some people’s coping plan against poor mental health included social support and having other ventures to provide meaning and structure. This can be testing when financial problems keep you from going out or connecting as you used to but continue – you may be amazed by the support you receive. And don’t be afraid to say you’re currently looking for a job – almost everyone has been in the same boat and this lets them know that you’re available. 

• Donate your time – volunteer

Volunteering boosts attitude, gives a sense of purpose, and reduces loneliness. You may also learn new skills and meet new people, which could present networking opportunities. Furthermore, volunteer work – primarily if related to your industry – is a bonus on your CV. 

As the saying goes, “Life is what happens when you’re making other plans”. If you use losing a job as an opportunity to grow and discover, then it may set out to be exactly what you need to move upwards and onwards.