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Losing A Job by Bonnie Lloyd

Unless you have been through the stress of losing a job, it is hard to know exactly it feels. This is a brief step-by-step guide on coping with the loss of employment.

1. EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS. Losing a job can create all sorts of negative emotions. These can include anger, rejection, unworthiness, apathy, depression, guilt, shame and humiliation. All these feelings and more are entirely natural and normal. Create an outlet for these whether it is talking to a friend, a counsellor or venting in a journal. If you are honest and open about these feelings it will not only make them easier for you to cope with but also for those close to you.
   
   
2. BE AWARE OF YOUR THOUGHTS. It is easy to get into a cycle of beating yourself up at this time. If you find yourself entering this cycle then try daily affirmations. It could be as simple as telling yourself every morning that you are a worthwhile person.
   
   
3. DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT TO DO. Losing a job is not only an ending but also a new beginning. Ask yourself what you want to do from here. Dismiss nothing as being stupid or a pipe dream - this could be a golden opportunity to make your dreams into a reality.
   
   
4. GET BACK ON THAT HORSE! Though taking some time out for reflection is a good thing, don't take too much time. It's so easy to put off seeking that golden opportunity because your confidence has been knocked. The sooner you get back out there, the easier it will be.
   
   
5. DON'T GIVE IN TO FEAR. If you decide to try a new business venture then just do it. Once you have made the decision, stick to it, don't think about it, just do it. Moving out of our 'comfort zone' is always frightening. The majority of this kind of fear stems from our fear of failure - "What if it doesn't work?" - the only failure is in never having tried.