Recovering from being laid off of a job can often be a large challenge for any individual. However, we’re here to show you the best ways for you to focus on yourself, move past this struggle, and ultimately ensure that you are ready for your next position! Remember, almost any negative situation comes with hidden silver linings.

The Most Important Lesson We Can Teach . . . Focus on You!

• First and Foremost – Let yourself feel all of the feelings. Let yourself be sad. Let yourself be relieved. Let yourself grieve so that you are, in time, ready to pursue future endeavors with a clear, determined mind!
• Take Time and Work to Become Your Best Self – Use your temporary break from work to take time for you! Whether this entails taking time to revise and improve your resume, updating your LinkedIn profile, or cleaning out your social media channels, utilize your freed up time to ensure that you will be the best candidate for your next position.
  • However, remember, you don’t have to jump back into work right away. Begin these practices once you are rested and ready.
• Outside of Work Self-Reflection – Aside from perfecting the aspects that make up your professional profile, take time to reflect on who you are outside of work. What do you enjoy? Have you taken time for yourself and personal fulfillment outside of the workplace?
  • This is a fantastic time to pursue a new hobby. If you need a few ideas, we encourage you to practice yoga, meditation, try a new food, spend time with friends and family, take a cooking class, or engage in any form of exercise! All of these activities will help you relieve stress and reach genuine happiness.
• Help Others – It is proven that one of the best ways to achieve happiness is by helping others. And luckily, you can do this in an endless amount of ways! Volunteering through homeless shelters, animal shelters, community service opportunities, or any charity organization will increase your sense of fulfillment, purpose, belonging, and overall feeling of happiness on an exponential level. 
• Reach Out to Your Network – Contacting those who are a part of your network can help you in a multitude of ways! You can utilize these (free!) resources for means of advice, guidance, or a potential new job opportunity. This is the most important time to take advantage of the connections you have built throughout your professional career. Don’t hesitate to connect with those who you have built a relationship with, especially because they may help you re-enter the workplace!
• Re-evaluate Your Career – Many people fear the common question: are you happy? Well, are you? Did you truly enjoy the work you were executing in your past position, or are you ready to potentially pursue a new career path? If so, now is the time to explore new opportunities, fields, or industries. In fact, some people even take this time to return to school and expand their educational career through achieving a Master’s degree, new certification, or even just to explore new fields and courses.
• Reach Out – Once you are prepared to enter the job hunt, be proactive on all professional channels. Utilize LinkedIn, Indeed.com, and other professional resources during the entire duration of your search for a new position. Job opportunities are opening up each day, and applying as soon as possible will help you get ahead in the application pool!

Above all, remember that you are not alone! There is an endless number of people in the same situation as you. There is nothing to be ashamed of. You can get through this!

Looking for some extra tips on how to be the best candidate? Read our article about what recruiters look for!

Check out our blog to find out the best times to apply for your next job!

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