Surviving a Layoff
Surviving a layoff in this current job market can lead to other misfortunes. Keeping your wits about you will be critical for getting through this temporary situation. It is natural for you feel angry and maybe some resentment toward your employer and possibly apphrension about what the future holds. Allow yourself to go through the grieving process of loosing your job as it will serve you well to flush the negative feelings out of system and prevent you from carrying that energy into your new opportunity.
Exit your job as the way you entered as a professional; you will need to close any open loops, transition work and meet with your human resource department to discuss insurance, unemployment, 401k benefits, severance pay and unused vacation time. It would also be a good idea to secure letters of recommendation before your departure. With your new found freedom comes responsibility, keep your self on a schedule-don't change the time on your alarm clock. If you were accustomed to getting up at 6 am continue that routine; breaking it may cause you stay in bed all day-sleep will make you weak.
Start a workout plan, get out of the house and get some sun each day. Cast you're networking net wide in your search for new employment, now wouldn't be the time to lay low-let your friends and family know your in the job market. After you find your resume, dust it off and spruce it up a bit with key word candy for your new position.
Utilize this time to revaluate where you're currently in life, but more importantly where you want to go-don't linger on the obvious fact that your unemployed. Focus your energy on mapping out a vision for the next phase in your life. Consider taking a course, volunteer your time-sharing your expertise with others is a great way to keep your mind productive and engage in meaningful work.
Lean on your family and friends for emotional support when necessary during this temporary season. As you transition from the fall into the winter, preparation will be key check your financial reserves and make the necessary adjustment in your budget. Contact your creditors and make arrangements with them, if you find your self unemployed for an extended period of time.
Winter doesn't last always, you will see a break in your circumstances. Preparation is essential for your survival, take a lesson from the ants. All summer ants are busy running around gathering all the food they can before the winter, because they know the snow is coming. They also after winter comes spring. Conserve your energy and you will be ready for your next opportunity when it presents itself.
