So You've Lost Your Job - What Now?

by: Catherine Trebble

Sometimes life has a way of creating an opportunity for change when we least expect it, and it can come in the form of being fired or laid off. For those who have a means to get by financially for a few months, the experience may be fairly easy to deal with and perhaps a relief if it was a job that you were unhappy with anyway. But if you live paycheck to paycheck, it can be a terrifying experience, even if you were not happy with the job you once had.

In either situation, whether you're scared out of your mind or not, this is a moment of opportunity. The typical response for someone in this situation would be to go searching for a job very similar to the one they had, as that is what they know. But pause that thought long enough to check out your options first...

If you were unhappy with your previous job or career field, this is an opportunity for you to take some time to reflect on your life, rediscover who you are and what's important to you, so that you can go in search of a job that will leave you feeling happier and more fulfilled.

During the 80's I was lucky enough to be laid off from the job I had. I can look back now 25 years later and say I was lucky; however that wasn't my first reaction! My employer was putting me through college part time, and I was paid well.

When I really gave it some serious thought, I realized I didn't feel fulfilled in that career, and I actually admitted to myself that the thought of spending the rest of my working life in that career gave me the chills. Because of the choices I made at that time I can genuinely regard my being laid off as a blessing.

Maybe you are someone who already knows that you want more out of your life than what you had in your previous job, but you're unsure about what job would make you feel happy and fulfilled. Maybe you're already in the right career field, but just had the wrong job in that field.

Learning more about what makes you happy, how you feel about your current job, and taking stock of your life will help you connect the dots and create a clearer picture of the direction you need to take.

By taking stock of your life, you can gain a clearer perspective of where to go from here. You can take this information and use it as a road map that can help you take advantage of opportunities and avoid or lessen certain challenges you may face if you decide to start the journey down a new career path.

About The Author

Changing careers can be just the boost you're looking for. It can also be a scary proposition, especially when you are a woman. The pressures and obligations we are under can make this a difficult challenge. Don't let these obstacles stop you from finding the job you love. Discover everything you need to know about changing careers at http://www.CareerChangeInHeels.com