However strong you think you are, being retrenched or fired will hurt. Here’s a walkthrough of what you might experience, and how to come out better on the other side.
Stage one: Shock and denial
Losing your job can be difficult to accept, especially if you have been with the company for many years. Our word of advice: give yourself some space to come to terms with and process the situation; talk through your feedings with your spouse or a trusted friend
Stage two: Fear and panic
Once you have accepted your job loss, fear and stress can sweep in as you think about coping with pressing needs at hand
Word of advice: list your worries and process them systematically; talk through your worries with a trusted friend or coach and work on the next steps
Stage three: Anger
You may feel unfairly treated by your employer. However, anger may be unproductive and damage your job search.
Word of advice: Be aware of your emotions, and find a healthy outlet to express them; talk through your feedings with a spouse or a trusted friend
Stage four: Bargaining
Harping on what you could have done differently may lead you to blame yourself and affect your ability to move on.
Word of advice: instead of letting guilt take over, focus on the actions you can take to move forward; it may be useful to speak to family and friends or speak to a counsellor for third-party perspectives
Stage five: Depression
When reality sinks in, feelings of worthlessness and helplessness may creep in.
Word of advice: be patient, and understand that rejection from job applications is common; surround yourself with positive people and seek professional help if needed
Stage six: Acceptance
You start accepting the reality of your situation and begin to take charge of your job search. With the right guidance, you can find a fulfilling career
Word of advice: use your unemployment as an opportunity to re-evaluate your priorities; celebrate milestones, big or small, in your job search.
As Parameswari Seenivasan, a career coach says: “ Every individual’s experience with job loss is unique. What is important is to keep your mind calm and know that nothing is unbeatable. You got this!”
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