Eventually, most people face a layoff situation. It may be short. It could be permanent. Regardless, being laid off is seldom viewed as a positive unless it was voluntary as sometimes happens when you are part of a union. After being laid off, three large areas of life need to be addressed. A layoff affects your self-esteem, your income, and your future.
When you get the word of the layoff, it can be unnerving.
Even if you know that a layoff is possible, you tend to hope that it will not hit you. If you are low on the seniority list or hold a less critical type of position, almost any layoff will target your job. It is common to begin wondering immediately about what to do next and could you have done anything to avoid being out of a job. While you may have contributed to the cause of your layoff, it is important not to view this as an indictment against your abilities or your character.
Allowing a layoff to erode your sense of self-worth will only keep you from moving forward.
One of the best ways to deal with being laid off is to keep the attitude in positive mode. Do not allow yourself to sink into self pity and depression. Staying positive and looking forward will energize you to begin looking for the best solutions to the loss of income.
See the layoff as an opportunity to try a new direction.
If things did not work out with this job and this company, you can find a better one. If the layoff is considered temporary, you will need to stay focused to keep the bills paid and food on the table with the lesser income from drawing unemployment benefits. With this income assured for a while, you can test the waters with a home-based business or learn new skills. If it helps you to stay upbeat, get some rest and recreation.
Money can be a big problem after being laid off.
Some people see only a minor drop in income during a layoff. This can be due to union pay subsidies or low earning power resulting in small paychecks before the layoff. Unfortunately, most people see a dramatic drop in their cash flow. If you do not already work with a budget, this is an excellent time to get one produced. You have the need and the time to construct a budget to guide your spending during the layoff. Consult someone who knows how to create a budget if this is something that is difficult for you to accomplish.
Focus on the future.
Unless you work in an industry where jobs are hard to find and the pay is high, use a layoff as a chance to start a new career. Many companies pay big dollars, but you face layoffs every year or two. With some additional training, you may be able to match the money within a year or two in an industry that offers more stability. If you are drawing unemployment, consider investigating a career move while it is low risk. With at least some income, you can be choosy about where you go to work and what type of work you will be doing.
