Job transitions can be stressful—whether they’re due to layoff, a new job or working extra hours because other workers were laid off. If you’re facing one, consider the following:
1. Take an honest look at yourself. What are your strengths, weaknesses, skills? How did those influence—positively or negatively—your transition?
2. Step up your self-care. Major changes are physically and emotionally taxing. You need self-care now more than ever.
3. Engage your curiosity. What went wrong, or right? What could you have done better? What worked really well?
4. Find support. Since your transition affects your family as well, it may be better to seek the outside support of friends or professionals.
5. Work on your thoughts. Calm your fears and reinforce your sense of hope and happiness.
6. Focus on what you want, and less on what you don’t want. Keep your eye on the prize.
7. Reassure (or avoid) those who are threatened by, or jealous of, the change.
8. Create your own rite of passage. Ceremony and ritual help with all transitions.
9. Let go of how things were “supposed to be” and accept “how things are.” Appreciate what is.
10. Try on a new perspective. Don’t get stuck. Remember, the only constant is change.