Life after job loss
Everyone who's lost a job knows how difficult the experience can be. A range of emotions may follow the event, including anger, sadness and worry. It can be a terrible blow to one's self-confidence.
It is important to acknowledge your feelings and learn to cope with them through positive action.
5 key questions
Although it may take time, some people will find that job loss can lead to new opportunities. Here are five questions to consider, to serve as a starting point to helping you determine next steps, and a new beginning.
- Is there a new career direction you've always wanted to explore? This may be the time to get inspired by preparing for a new line of work. Investigate government-sponsored retraining programs and educational facilities.
- Could entrepreneurship be for you? Are there ways that you could become your own boss, either as a self-employed person or by starting a small business?
- Are there part-time or volunteer possibilities? Either as a temporary measure to provide financial relief, or as a way to move into a new position, alternative forms of work help you stay active and maintain structure and social contact.
- Are there skills you could brush up on? Upgrading computer or technical skills, improving management abilities, or learning new communication skills can make you feel empowered and confident, while demonstrating to prospective employers that you are committed to your career.
- Are there contacts who can help? Networking is often the best way to get leads for a new job, and it can also open doors when making a career change. Contact friends, family, colleagues, acquaintances, former bosses and tell them you're looking, and what you're looking for. Investigate and take advantage of any government, community and employer programs available to you.
Keep the lines open
The most important thing to remember in times of stress is to keep the lines of communication open between you and your family. Talk about how you are feeling, and look for solutions together.
If you find yourself depressed or overwhelmed by the emotions and financial challenges caused by unemployment, or if your situation is having a detrimental effect on your family, do seek help from your family physician or local counselling centre.