Things Change …
When things change … when you’re thrown off life’s treadmill without notice, it knocks you off-balance. A friend was working with the same company for over 25 years and recently lost her balance when she was told that the job no longer existed. Though the writing was on the wall, when it happened it was like a sharp blow. Separation like death was strange. It was final.
I thought about how I could or should comfort her. But what could I say? What are the right words? Are there any right words? Questions, questions, questions.
As an HR practitioner working in the field for over 20 years I thought about what could I say to her. Here I share a few thoughts:
Rest
First, get some rest. It’s important to face the reality of the situation. After ‘grinding the mill’ for many, many years, it’s important to take some time out to relax.
Reflect
While relaxing, reflect on the next steps. What do you want to do? Why do you want to do it? Does the ‘why‘ provide an opportunity to make a change in career path? A change in location? A change in mindset? Begin with the end in mind. Where do you see yourself in the next chapter of your life? Picture yourself 5, 10, or more years down the road accomplishing your goal, then work backwards.
Make A Plan
Prep The Next Steps. Once you decide on where you want to go, make a plan. Prepare for the next steps. Do you have skills that you could sell to someone else as an entrepreneur? What about exploring a different area of work. Know that the novelty of a new career endeavor is exciting. Prep that plan. Write it down.
Step Out
Step out. Act. Act on the plan that you came up with. When you start acting on the plan, review it often…at regular intervals to ensure you stay on track.
So if you have been there, lost your job and remain disappointed, dejected, or even stuck, get with the plan today. Start acting. Talk with a professional coach if needed and get your life back in order. Need help? Lets connect.
Cheers!
