As individuals we all go through job or career changes differently and as such, some of us may need more support than others.  Since change will impact us at various times in our lives, learning how to become resilient will help us get through the challenges we face as they appear.  Taking care of yourself during this time of change is very important to your future success as well.  Our clients have shared great insights with us and we pass them on to you to support your success.

Allow yourself time to grieve properly. Understand that job loss is significant.  Express your emotions when you feel them.  Cry if it helps, talk if you need to.  Your feelings of loss are very normal.  Get the support you need to move on in a healthy manner.

Care for yourself especially well.  We hear this often but it is especially true at this time.  Rest and get good sleep where possible, eat well and exercise regularly, find a positive outlet for your stress and use it.

Create a schedule and stick to it.  One of the most difficult challenges is keeping a routine.  If you need to take a short break after you have lost your job, do so but treat it as a vacation and get into a new routine quickly.  Create your own specific space for your work search and stick to core hours.  Don’t let anyone interfere with your progress.  When you are out of work, family and friends can and will take your time if they know it is there.  Be diligent with your time and don’t waste it. 

Set realistic, actionable goals and give yourself credit when you achieve them, even if they are small ones.

Banish the “Imps”!  The “imps” are for “impossible”…get rid of them.  The challenge ahead can be big but if you disallow thoughts of not being able to get through this, frightening or negative thoughts in your head, you will be much better off.    Replace negative thoughts with positive ones.  If you’ve goofed up, admit it and figure out how to not let it happen again.

Make time for fun.  Looking for work is a full time job so be sure you take regular breaks. If you have been neglecting a hobby, get back into it outside the hours you establish as core job search hours.

Maintain a positive outlook.  If in this vulnerable time, you are more affected by bad news, turn of the TV, radio, etc. if you have to.  Focus on issues and trends in your area of expertise.  Make this a time for positive learning for you.

Reconnect with friends, colleagues.  Our lives get so busy we sometimes lose touch.  Don’t isolate yourself as this is the worst thing you can do right now.  Increasing your circle of friends and acquaintances is helpful in your job search.

Take on a Personal or Professional Project. Your job search will take some time but when you work on it diligently upfront, you may find some extra time that could leave you feeling very frustrated and anxious.  To balance your energy and focus try taking on something new whether it be volunteer work that may take your career in a new direction, consulting to continue to utilize your expertise, or continue your education.  Keep busy and keep learning.

Maintain a Professional Image.  Our self-confidence can take a beating through job loss.  Your visual image speaks loudly before you get a chance to actually speak, so maintain or enhance all aspects of your visual appearance and keep a positive outlook.  Ensuring your interview skills are in top form will assist you in conveying the confidence employers are looking for.

If you would like more information regarding career strategy, please check out my Free Resources Tab on my website at www.hrcareertransition.com, like me on Conscious Career Planning with Lotte on Facebook, follow me on Twitter @lottestruwing or connect with me on LinkedIn at Lotte Struwing.