+254722457898How to deal with loss of employment
Losing a job can be utterly devastating especially in this tough times. It’s easy to feel that your world is collapsing. Equally, it’s tempting to imagine that youĺl never be able to secure another job that is as good as the one you previously held.
Such thoughts can yield hopelessness and helplessness. One can easily sink into depression. For the people who identify so much with their work, feeling worthless is inevitable. Also, resorting to substance abuse as a coping mechanism can seem like a viable option.
To avoid all the above, try the following six tips. They may help to deal with the feeling of loss and to get you back on your feet sooner than later.
Firstly, ensure you get proper clearance from your former employer. Don’t walk away in anger leaving things hanging. Get your letter of recommendation if possible. If a misunderstanding was the cause of termination, ensure you clear things up.
Remember your next employer will unfailingly contact your former employer. Don’t let a bad recommendation or bad blood between you and your former employer close potential doors for you. If you’re accused of something wrongly, get the vindication and if you were indeed wrong, apologize as you leave.
Secondly, readjust your expenditure immediately to avoid running through your savings fast before you are back on your feet. Readjusting your life may at times mean moving to a cheaper house, getting a smaller car, opting out of unnecessary bills and generally cutting your expenditure. At times, you may be forced to move back home as you figure things out.
Always remember that readjusting should not be perceived as a failure or lowering ones standards. It’s simply a way of taking time out to reflect before relaunching yourself once again.
Thirdly, don’t start job hunting immediately. Take time out to rest and think about everything that led to where you are. Visit a few friends and family. Think of it as a needed break to reflect on your life before moving to the next phase.
Fourthly, after you’ve rested, have the courage to share with your friends and colleagues in the same field. Let them know you are looking for a job. Don’t be too choosy. Take what comes as you keep searching for what you consider ideal. Avoid remaining indoors and wondering what people will think about you. Trust me, your friends may prove to be very sympathetic and supportive.
Fifthly, visit a counselor or a psychologist to discuss your emotions and thoughts. Like death, abrupt termination from a job can yield feelings of loss. If the job was important to you, grieve may follow. A counselor will help you to keep things in perspective. Therapy may stand between you and sinking into depression/substance abuse.
Finally, surround yourself with people who will encourage you. Avoid worrying about what the future portends. Focus on the present moment. Have faith that things will work out. Let go all the resentment and forgive those that may have orchestrated your current situation.