How to think Positively about a Layoff
Unless you are a millionaire who only goes to work because you think it's fun, then you have nothing to worry about. But if you are like the vast majority, you would likely find a layoff to be one of the most devastating experiences you could face. Especially in times like these, when layoffs are at an all time high, the housing market is in a slump, and inflation is steadily on the rise, how is a person to think positively about a potential job loss? Well, it's not only possible, it's crucial for your success and your future. Here are the steps you need to take before and after a layoff, not only to keep your sanity, but to keep your head held high with optimism and hope.
Be Prepared
It's not just a cute slogan for the Boy Scouts. It's what you've got to do if you want not only to survive, but to thrive in the chance that you get laid off. You're not psychic, but you are intelligent, and you know that no one's job is one hundred percent secure in this economy. So it is better to be prepared in advance for a layoff than to wait around for it to happen, and then have no clue what to do.
First of all, if you live in a two income household, you must live as if you only have one income. This means that if your house payment exceeds one of the incomes, or if one income would not support your outgo in a time of crisis, then something's gotta give. Don't wait to put your house on the market until you might be looking at foreclosure. Put it on the market now, and plan on downsizing so that if a layoff happens, you won't be financially devastated. Save that second income for a rainy day, and start aggressively paying down debt. The layoff may never come, but if you live like this, it's a win-win situation. If you don't get laid off, you have a nice nest egg in your account. If it does come, you are prepared to deal with it.
Do Something
There is work out there to be had for anyone who really wants it. Have you been laid off recently? Well, there's no reason to sulk on the couch all day. Websites likeCareerBuilderandCraigslistare excellent sources for temporary work. Who knows, you may find something you enjoy even more than your last job. Several people have found odd jobs on Craigslist, such as handyman work, house cleaning, roofing, landscaping, you name it. You can even develop a new hobby such as repairing vehicles and flipping them for a profit. The sky is the limit. So get out there and find something to do! You wanted to get out of your old, stuffy, boring office, anyway!
Think Entrepreneurial
Have you always wanted to try your hand at your own business? Well, there's no better time than now. The Greek philosopher Plato said that necessity is the mother of invention. If you are laid off, you know necessity better than most people. So get creative! Have you always wanted to write a book? Write it. Have you always wanted to learn a new skill? Learn it. Have you always wanted to earn a certain degree? Go back to school and get it. We live in the land of opportunity, the greatest country in the world. There is no reason for any able-bodied person to sit at home with nothing to do. Look at a layoff as a new chapter of your life, one in which one door is closing and another is opening. This is your chance to do something even bigger and better with your life, so get out there and make it happen!
With the right attitude, a layoff can be a wonderful opportunity, rather than a devastating curse. And like financial guru Dave Ramsey says, when the boss tells you that you are no longer needed, you can just smile and ask, "How big is the severance?"
