Job Loss is a Time for Introspection

According to Harvard Business Review, a layoff can be the best thing that happened to you.  It can be a catalyst for personal growth and development that may lead you to a more purposeful, joyful and fulfilling life.  However, this takes some effort, and "that effort comes easier if you take care of our own emotional and mental well-being in the process."   Before you instinctively jump into the next phase of your journey, take time for introspection. It’s important to pause, take a few breaths and reflect on your priorities and values.  

At first, introspection when you’ve been laid off can lead to a variety of emotions including anger, anxiety, fear and depression.  It’s important that you reflect on how you are feeling.  Identify your fears of the unknown, and this can help you mitigate them and get you unstuck and able to move forward. 

Being let go from a job can also lead you to opportunities that you might not have otherwise considered. If you are open to it, this may encourage you to move in a positive and exploratory way forward in your transition.  You may even move toward a new career, while also supporting personal growth and self-discovery.  This includes developing new interests and/or resurrecting old hobbies.

Introspection not only includes self-care, but also reflecting on your strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and evaluating what is really important to you.  This can include both professional and personal considerations.  You may need to obtain additional training to grow your professional skills or re-train for a new career.  Personal skills might include communication or soft skills.  Soft skills are those essential traits one needs to succeed socially and professionally.  Neglecting these skills could cost you a promotion, or even your job.  These soft skills (or lack of them) can impact the way you are perceived, how you present yourself and how you interview.  It’s critical to develop your listening skills, ensure you are collaborative, and connect with others. Like any skill, these soft skills take practice and reinforcement.  

Additionally, take inventory of your core values and broaden your sights while seeking activities that will provide you with more exposure and possibly lead to new connections.  Don’t forget to seek out support and feedback from your family, friends or a professional, if needed.  Accepting support from others while determining your priorities will help ease the transition to your next journey.

And remember, sometimes what didn’t work out for you, actually ended up working out.  Give it a chance.