Unwanted Stress: Learning to Cope

The stress of losing a job is palpable. While I do possess a modest safety net, have received a small severance, and the job market appears robust, the emotional toll is significant.

I have witnessed colleagues face similar challenges in the past, but it’s only when you're in the situation yourself that you grasp its full weight. My workaholic nature means that when I’m not working, I’m often engaged in learning. Although this constant engagement is unhealthy, it is part of who I am.

After the initial shock wore off, I decided to regain control over my life. I promptly began applying for jobs and refining my resume. This task felt manageable. Currently, I’m assessing the roles I’m interested in and their requirements, all while learning as much as I can about the companies I’m applying to.

Will my efforts pay off? Perhaps, but for now, this is the best I can do. I’m treating my job search like a full-time job and will persist until I secure a new position.

Backup Plans: More Than Just Digital Safety Nets

One of the first steps I take when starting a new position is to cultivate relationships. Though challenging in a post-COVID era, I prioritize building connections. Having worked remotely for a decade, the pandemic didn’t disrupt my work habits as much as it did others; however, it did hinder my ability to connect with coworkers in person. I have made it a point to visit them whenever possible.

Your professional network is vital to your success in any field. Those I’ve met appreciate my efforts to maintain these connections. So how does this relate to being laid off and having a backup? It’s simple: few people remain in one job for an extended period nowadays. When I transitioned to my last role, it was a former colleague who referred me.

It’s often said that it’s not just what you know but who you know, and this rings especially true in job hunting. These connections form my safety net, so I’ve begun reaching out to my network. If you haven’t invested time in nurturing relationships, you may lack this crucial safety net. I recommend starting immediately.

Be Like Thanos: Become Inevitable

What measures have you taken to enhance your employability? A friend recently mentioned that their college degree wasn’t enough to secure a job. Relying solely on your degree could be a disservice to your career.

Each day, commit to learning something new, especially if you currently have stable employment. I’ve always kept an eye on job descriptions; even as a child, I would browse classified ads to learn about job requirements.

Utilize platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor to identify intriguing positions and compile a list of skills needed. Start enhancing the easier aspects that you can tackle independently to make yourself more appealing to employers. Some of these skills might even benefit your current job. Remember, knowledge is never wasted; think of each piece as a building block for your future.

This Still Sucks…

Despite receiving interest from recruiters shortly after my layoff, I must admit that this situation is incredibly frustrating. It’s filled with stress, uncertainty, and an overall sense of disorientation. While I will do my utmost to expedite the process, I recognize that many factors are beyond my control.

Have you experienced job loss? How did you navigate it? If you need advice, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. Regardless, I’ll keep you in my thoughts.

Video Description: In this video, the speaker shares three valuable lessons learned after being laid off, focusing on personal growth and resilience.

Video Description: The speaker discusses the harsh realities of losing a high-paying job at Google, sharing five crucial lessons that emerged from the experience.