What do you do if you're facing a layoff and need to maintain a positive mindset?
Facing a layoff can be one of the most stressful and challenging situations in your career. You may feel angry, scared, anxious, or depressed about losing your job, income, and sense of security. However, you can also use this as an opportunity to grow as a leader and develop a positive mindset that will help you cope and bounce back. In this article, we will share some tips on how to handle a layoff with resilience and optimism.
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Dr. Andrea DiesePresident | Corporate Trainer | Leadership Coach | Business Strategist (Egghead) | Woman Empowerment Advocate | Keynote…
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Emmanuel C. AnadebeMBBS, MSPH | Public Health Researcher
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Michelle Palacio CookCreating a Culture of Learning for Professional and Personal Growth | PMP | CSM | L&D Program/Project Manager |…
The first step to maintaining a positive mindset is to acknowledge and accept your emotions. Don't suppress or deny how you feel, as this can lead to more stress and frustration. Instead, allow yourself to experience and express your feelings, whether it's through talking to someone, writing in a journal, or engaging in a healthy outlet. By acknowledging your emotions, you can process them and move on to the next stage of your journey.
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Marcia Souza
Gerente de Treinamento Estratégico | Desenvolvimento de Vendas | Educação Corporativa | Gestão de Aprendizagem | Master Coach | Metodologias Ativas
Autoconhecimento | Uma demissão é a oportunidade de um recomeço - Respire | entenda que nenhuma demissão é pessoal, somente o tempo que acabou naquele único lugar - Resgate sua história | responda a você mesma quais suas conquistas, ganhos e aprendizados em toda a sua história - Fique com vc | Não busque contato com os “ex” que não terão nenhuma resposta para você - Siga em Frente | Aquele espaço é tempo que viveu é 0.1% de tudo que você pode viver ainda - EN Self-knowledge | A dismissal is not the end but the opportunity for a new beginning - Breathe | understand that no dismissal is personal, only the time that is over in that one place - Go ahead | That space is the time you lived is 0.1% of everything you can still live
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🗺️ Cristina Lanca Carrageis
Passionate Quality Assurance Engineer | Driving Excellence in Software Testing and Quality Control | Continuous Improvement Advocate | Let's Elevate Quality Together!
This is the most affected it, how to control your emotions, facing a redundant/layoff situation. It's easy to say, but try to focus on the good work that you did, it's not your fault. Take the opportunity to update your CV, align your career goals, and also check the trends, if you need to update your training or not. Then get back to business, start using your network, search for job offers, and apply. Believe in yourself and keep being motivated.
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Jason Grooms
Expert in Leadership Development | Driving Tangible Results in Organizational Change | Holistic Approach to Organizational Development | Innovative Thinker | Neurodiversity, Diversity, & Inclusion Advocate
First and foremost, it's okay to feel scared, lost, or angry. These emotions are valid. Recognize and accept what you're going through. This is where Conscious Authenticity plays a crucial role. Being honest about your feelings doesn't make you weak; it makes you human. Sharing your experiences with others can create a space where vulnerability is met with understanding, fostering a sense of community and support among colleagues who might be feeling the same way.
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Rajdeep D.
Facing a layoff can be challenging, but maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Focus on what you can control, like updating your skills and networking. Stay connected with supportive friends and family. Take care of your physical and mental well-being through exercise and relaxation techniques. Remember, setbacks can lead to new opportunities. Stay optimistic and proactive in exploring different career paths. Engage in activities you enjoy to boost morale. Embrace change as a chance for growth. With resilience and a positive outlook, you can navigate this transition successfully.
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Emmanuel C. Anadebe
MBBS, MSPH | Public Health Researcher
Yes! Acknowledge your feelings first. It's okay to feel upset or worried. Then, shift your focus to positive aspects. Look for new opportunities or skills to learn. Stay connected with supportive people. Keeping a hopeful mindset can help you navigate through tough times and find new beginnings.
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Dr. Andrea Diese
President | Corporate Trainer | Leadership Coach | Business Strategist (Egghead) | Woman Empowerment Advocate | Keynote Speaker | Best Selling Author | Black Leaders Worldwide™ - Partner | Wife | Mom | Beast!!!
Having a positive mindset in situations like this can be challenging. The decision to downsize is not personal but it still stings very much. During times like this, your emotions can run like a rollercoaster. We have been conditioned to put on a good face because we don’t want people to see the personal side of us. But feelings can feel very personal. Reflect upon the times that made you smile. Know that you have greater doors opening your way and that you can choose a different. Speak to your accountability partner or coach often to help keep your mindset in a positive manner. Whatever you give the most time and energy to will become your reality. Choose the reality you want and emotions that you want to feel.
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Rebecca Faust (Heydon)
Coach. Published Author. Catalyst for change.
It's wonderful to see this as the first step; acknowledging your emotions. Being laid off, SUCKS. It's ok to be mad, sad...or happy. However you feel is OK. I recommend taking on something to help you accept what's happening, quickly. In coaching, we have Completion, but journaling or talking through it with someone would also work. Remember, what we resist persists: if you don't acknowledge and look at the emotions you're feeling, they will grow. Another helpful act to take on is, REALLY acknowledge how you felt before the news. Were you anxious? Nervous? Unhappy? Bored? Overwhelmed? While it brings up new emotions, the finality of being laid off can actually put a stop to other feelings.
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Raiza Provana Bertoncini 🏳️🌈
HRBP and Human Development Consultant - Change Management and Organizational Transformation
Mais importante do que gerenciar as emoções durante e após uma demissão, é gerenciar a própria carreira de forma protagonista independente do cargo atual. Entender o autoconhecimento como um ponto que nos ajuda a fortalecer interesses, pontos de desenvolvimento e qualidades em qualquer momento da carreira, é fundamental para evitar a sensação de "fiquei sem chão" em um momento de saída. Além disso, lembrar do Famoso mundo BANI nos ajuda a olhar a carreira de forma multidirecional e nos preparando para mudanças, trazendo nossos talentos para além de uma única função ou empresa. Acima de tudo, em um momento de demissão, vale a pena "respirar, refletir e repensar" para agir em relação aos próximos passos, nem sempre uma demissão é ruim!
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Bukes. E S.
Safety Compliance Officer
It's normal to feel a range of emotions such as fear, sadness, or anger when facing a layoff. Allow yourself to feel these emotions and acknowledge them rather than suppressing them.
The second step to maintaining a positive mindset is to focus on what you can control, rather than what you can't. You can't control the decision to lay you off, the economy, or the job market, but you can control your attitude, your actions, and your goals. Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, focus on the present and what you can do to improve your situation. For example, you can update your resume, network with contacts, learn new skills, or explore new opportunities.
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Emmanuel C. Anadebe
MBBS, MSPH | Public Health Researcher
Dedicate more effort on what's in your control. Update your resume, network, and apply for jobs. Spend time improving skills or exploring new interests. Take care of your well-being by exercising and staying connected with loved ones. Remember, focusing on what you can change can help you stay positive during uncertain times.
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Brent Chapman
Delivery Lead
Navigating through a layoff is undoubtedly challenging, often prompting self-doubt and questioning about personal performance and worthiness in one's role. However, it's crucial to recognize that layoffs can occur for various reasons beyond individual control. Despite this setback, it's essential not to diminish your value and potential elsewhere. Use this experience as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Instead of dwelling solely on self-criticism, focus on learning from the situation. Ask yourself what signs you could have recognized earlier and how you can better prepare for similar scenarios in the future. Cultivate resilience in your career journey.
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Tarek Haydar
Restaurateur | Results coaching | Balancing kindness and Strictness | Leading business with entrepreneurial spirit | Strategic planning | Pre-Opening Expertise | SME | P&L expertise | Continuous improvement mindset |
I have been there during the cost cutting periods when economical downturns hit ! I have never wasted a minute thinking about why it has happened and what ifs...! The thinking should be focused on investing your senses in finding the new opportunity that suits your skills , experience and personality! Dream about what the future holds for you and what you can give in your new tenure ! Every layoff is an opportunity for your next step !
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Jason Grooms
Expert in Leadership Development | Driving Tangible Results in Organizational Change | Holistic Approach to Organizational Development | Innovative Thinker | Neurodiversity, Diversity, & Inclusion Advocate
In the sea of uncertainty that a layoff brings, it's easy to feel adrift. Here, the value of Resilience shines through. Ask yourself, "What can I control?" This is the time to build your brand; update your resume, reach out to your network, create an online presence related to your skills, or even start to build new ones. Take time to think about and capture what motivates you. What is your mission or vision for [Your Name] Inc.? These actions are more than just tasks; they're affirmations of your agency in shaping your future. They also help start to increase your emotional resilience. By focusing on these, you light a path forward, one step at a time.
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Rebecca Faust (Heydon)
Coach. Published Author. Catalyst for change.
In this situation, it can be easy to just "survive" the time left before your employment officially ends. What if you thrived instead? How can you make the most of your time left? What do you want get from and contribute to, during your remaining time? How do you want to be remembered? Life is long and the world is small. You have no idea who you will run into again or who can support you. Always best to assume everyone can help you and you'll run into them all. Admit you'll start doing things for you(resume, new skills, etc) and ask what's most important for you to focus on for the team, before you leave. Think about everything you've learned and received from the people and company you've been part of. It served a purpose.
The third step to maintaining a positive mindset is to seek support and feedback from others. You don't have to go through this alone, and you can benefit from the advice, encouragement, and perspective of people who care about you. Reach out to your family, friends, mentors, or former colleagues and ask for their help, guidance, or referrals. You can also join a support group, a professional association, or an online community where you can connect with people who are in a similar situation or have overcome a layoff.
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Michelle Palacio Cook
Creating a Culture of Learning for Professional and Personal Growth | PMP | CSM | L&D Program/Project Manager | Learning and Development Team Leader | Curriculum Planner and Instructional Designer
Don't take rejections personally. There's nothing wrong with you personally; you're one of millions of hopeful applicants, so it's really just the luck of the draw. Remember that their inability to recognize your talent is their loss, and who wants to work for someone who doesn't recognize their talent? Keep moving forward, keep applying, keep networking. You'll find something as long as you keep trying.
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Emmanuel C. Anadebe
MBBS, MSPH | Public Health Researcher
Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or support groups: - Share your feelings and seek advice. - Ask for feedback on your skills and job search strategies. Remember, you're not alone, and others may offer valuable insights or connections. Their support can boost your morale and keep you positive during tough times.
The fourth step to maintaining a positive mindset is to practice gratitude and optimism. Gratitude is the act of appreciating what you have, rather than what you lack. Optimism is the belief that things will work out for the best, rather than the worst. Both of these practices can help you cope with stress, boost your mood, and motivate you to take action. To practice gratitude and optimism, you can write down three things you are grateful for every day, list your strengths and achievements, or visualize your desired outcomes.
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Felipe Cruz
Gerente Nacional | Gerente Regional | Gerente | Líder | Especialista | Executivo | Consultor | Coordenador | Head | Inteligência Comercial.
Enfrentar uma demissão é um daqueles momentos de teste, mas aqui vai a real: praticar gratidão e otimismo pode ser seu escudo e espada. Quando tudo parece meio nublado, tenta listar as coisas boas na sua vida, pode ser qualquer coisa que te faça sorrir, sabe? Esse exercício de gratidão te ajuda a ver que, apesar dos perrengues, tem muita coisa boa acontecendo também. E o otimismo? Ah, esse é o seu lembrete de que tem luz no fim do túnel. É acreditar que algo bom está por vir, mesmo que a situação atual esteja difícil.
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Emmanuel C. Anadebe
MBBS, MSPH | Public Health Researcher
Practice gratitude daily. - Reflect on things you're thankful for, like good health or supportive relationships. - Stay optimistic about the future, focusing on possibilities and opportunities. - Visualize success and keep a hopeful outlook. Cultivating gratitude and optimism can help maintain a positive mindset, even during challenging times like a layoff.
The fifth step to maintaining a positive mindset is to take care of yourself. Your physical and mental health are crucial for your well-being and performance, especially during a difficult time. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, exercise regularly, and avoid substance abuse. You can also practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, breathing, or yoga, to reduce stress and anxiety. By taking care of yourself, you can enhance your energy, confidence, and resilience.
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Dr. Andrea Diese
President | Corporate Trainer | Leadership Coach | Business Strategist (Egghead) | Woman Empowerment Advocate | Keynote Speaker | Best Selling Author | Black Leaders Worldwide™ - Partner | Wife | Mom | Beast!!!
Recognize that taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. You have the typical healthy eating, sleeping habits, etc. But one of the best things you can do is set boundaries. You can’t control what others do but you can control how much of it you take in. You decide what you will and will not allow. Exercise your option of “free will”. Erecting boundaries and saying no sounds easy but you are trying to adjust years of training and indoctrination. In this entire process, make sure to give yourself some grace. Somethings will seem easier than others to accomplish. And that’s ok. As long as you begin to put your needs first, you will be moving in the right direction.
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Emmanuel C. Anadebe
MBBS, MSPH | Public Health Researcher
Focus on self-care. - Eat well, exercise, and get enough rest. - Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. - Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay grounded. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally can help maintain a positive mindset and resilience during a layoff.
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Rebecca Faust (Heydon)
Coach. Published Author. Catalyst for change.
Self-care is always important, even more so when we're having a tough time; which can be when most people let it go. If you do nothing but make that your focus, you will come out ahead. Create a routine and do your best to stick to it. I'd recommend keeping to the "it's ok to miss once, but don't miss twice in a row" rule. Schedule your activities on the calendar, whether it's yoga, running or updating your resume. Follow it. I would also recommend a "free" day. If you don't build in breaks or time "off" you'll have less motivation for the "work" days. You've been given more freedom in your schedule, try to use it without abusing it.
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Bukes. E S.
Safety Compliance Officer
Take time for self-care activities that help reduce stress and promote well-being. This might include exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
The sixth and final step to maintaining a positive mindset is to learn from the experience. A layoff can be a valuable learning opportunity, if you approach it with curiosity and openness. You can reflect on what you learned from your previous job, what skills you need to improve, what values you want to pursue, and what goals you want to achieve. You can also use this as a chance to explore new possibilities, challenge yourself, and reinvent yourself as a leader.
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Felipe Cruz
Gerente Nacional | Gerente Regional | Gerente | Líder | Especialista | Executivo | Consultor | Coordenador | Head | Inteligência Comercial.
A ideia é transformar limão em limonada. Por exemplo, já pensou em quantas vezes a gente ouve histórias de pessoas que foram demitidas e depois acharam o trampo dos sonhos ou começaram um negócio incrível? Isso acontece porque elas usaram essa experiência pra refletir, aprender e crescer. Encare como um momento de autoconhecimento e oportunidade pra buscar algo que realmente te faça vibrar. Pode ser a chance de descobrir novas paixões ou habilidades que você nem sabia que tinha. Então, bora lá: respire fundo, aprenda com o que passou e use isso como combustível pra sua próxima aventura!
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Bukes. E S.
Safety Compliance Officer
Remember that facing a layoff does not define your worth or value as a person. It is a temporary setback that you can overcome with resilience and a positive mindset.
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Kisha Wynter
I Help Companies Create Transformative Coaching Cultures I Leadership Consultant I Women Leadership Trailblazer I Author I Innovative Solutions I Trainer & Facilitator I DEI Strategist I Speaker I Executive Coach I ex-GE
First think of all the obstacles you have faced in life and how you’ve overcome them to get to where you are right now. You can handle so much more than you think. You got this! Next clean up your resume and start networking externally, contact a recruiter. It’s better to be prepared and ahead of the game so that you are not out of a job without a salary or options.
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Rev. Fred T. Booker MAHS
Servant of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ
Another thing to consider, if you are connected to a higher power, then trust and have faith that the same God that gave you the current job, will deliver the next. Then continue to perform as if the layoff may happen, but not to me.
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