Lost your job? Here’s how to cope

There are many ways individuals may lose their jobs. This includes being laid off, a company being downsized, getting fired and receiving a pink slip. No matter the method, it is all job loss, and job loss hurts.

Job loss often causes stress so high that it ranks with stress from deaths, divorces and medical illnesses. It can cause effects on your physical and mental health and well-being. Many individuals go through the same cycle of grief when experiencing job loss including denial, anger, frustration and adaption. It is okay to grieve, but do not dwell on these feelings. Below you will find many methods that can help you cope when you experience job loss.

1. Make a Routine and Stick to It

It is okay if you use your job loss to spend some time with your family or take a vacation. Schedule the time for these things, however, to assist you in still maintaining a routine. Make sure you have a routine for your day to day life as well. This could include things as simple as scheduling your meals and scheduling times to perform job searches. Make a schedule that works for you and your family and stick to it.

2. Explore New Things

Experience a job loss offers you the perfect opportunity to explore new things. Get out and try new things that you may have been too afraid to try before or that you may have been too busy to try before. You could go back to school if you can afford it, learn a new skill such as a new language or explore and discover new places. It is even possible at this time to consider opening a business or exploring new career fields. Develop your passions and desires.

3. Assess Your Skills

When searching for a job, you have to essentially market yourself to potential employers. It is difficult for some people to market their skills and abilities when they have been in the same job for years. They may forget the skills they possess or forget how to write them down on paper. Take time to create a list of all of your skills that would be marketable to a potential employer. Consider how these skills could relay and assist in any job you apply for.

4. Do Not Internalise Job Rejection

During a job search, there will be many rejections. These rejections may take the form of unanswered applications, unanswered interviews, and emails and phone calls that simply say no. Do not internalise these rejections. Do not see yourself as a failure for not getting potential jobs that you may apply to. See the rejection in a positive light, and think of it as an opportunity for more at someplace else to better yourself.

5. Seek Help

It is important to seek help from family and friends following job loss. They are there to support you through difficult times. It is important to seek encouragement from them, especially if you are feeling symptoms of depression or anxiety. If necessary, seek professional help. Find someone to talk to if these symptoms become more frequent or if you need additional support.

Facing job loss is something that many individuals will experience in their lives. You do not have to go through it alone. People are there to support you and you will one day find your purpose and passion again. Do not give up hope and continue exploring and discovering to one day find a new job that fulfils you and your desires.