By Leigh D Wilson BE (Hons.) FIEAust, CPEng APEC Engineer IntPE(Aust)
Master Executive Mindset Coach, Performance Consultant & Author
Following on from my previous article on inner struggles, today I want to talk about Why losing my job can be so painful.
Losing a job can be a challenging and painful experience that affects different aspects of a person’s life. It can have far-reaching consequences on one’s financial, social, emotional, and psychological well-being. It can be a significant blow to your self-esteem, sense of purpose, and security. In this blog post, we will explore why losing a job can be so painful and provide some suggestions on how to cope with it.
Loss of Identity
For many people, their job is an essential part of their identity. Losing a job can lead to a loss of self-identity, self-worth, and purpose. It can be difficult to separate yourself from the job that you have invested so much time and effort into. This sense of loss can lead to feelings of grief, sadness, and uncertainty about the future.
Survival and Security
In today’s economy, a job is more than just a source of income. It provides stability, security, and a sense of control over your life. Losing a job can shatter this sense of security and leave you feeling vulnerable, anxious, and unsure about their future. The financial implications of job loss can be significant, and it can take time to find new employment.
Sense of Failure
Losing a job can make you feel like they have failed in some way. Even if the job loss was not your fault, it can still feel like a personal failure. It can be challenging to separate your self-worth from your job and to maintain a positive self-image after losing a job.
Sense of Rejection
Job loss can also feel like a personal rejection. The feeling of being let go or fired can make you feel unwanted and unappreciated. This sense of rejection can lead to feelings of hurt, anger, and sadness.
Social Isolation
Work is often a place where people form meaningful social connections. Losing a job can mean losing daily interactions with colleagues and peers, as well as a sense of belonging and community. This loss of social connections can be particularly challenging for those who rely heavily on work relationships for support and social interaction.
What to Do About It
Losing a job is undoubtedly a challenging experience, but it is possible to cope and move forward. Here are some suggestions on how to do that:
Acknowledge Your Feelings
It is essential to acknowledge and validate your feelings about job loss. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, whether they are anger, sadness, or confusion. Avoid suppressing your feelings as it can make the healing process more prolonged.
Practice Self-Care
During this challenging time, it is essential to take care of yourself. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that bring you a sense of peace and calm. Take care of your physical health by eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough rest.
Reach Out for Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out to family and friends for emotional support. Talk to them about your experience and how you feel. If you need additional support, consider talking to a therapist or a coach who can provide professional guidance and advice.
Reframe the Experience
Try to reframe the experience of job loss as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Focus on the skills you have gained from the job and the experience you have acquired. Consider this as an opportunity to take a new path and explore new opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Losing a job can be a painful and challenging experience, but it is essential to remember that it is not the end of the road. It can be an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. By acknowledging your feelings, practicing self-care, reaching out for support, and reframing the experience, you can move forward and find new opportunities for personal and professional growth. Remember, this is just one event, albeit a big one, in a lifetime of events.
In my next article I’ll explain exactly why feelings of rejection can be so painful.
In the meantime, if you are having trouble with your inner struggles of any sort, you might like to get in touch with me on LinkedIn or Facebook (look for Leigh D Wilson) and also check out my Free On-Demand Masterclass entitled ‘The Ultimate Guide to Overcoming Your Inner Struggles’ at ondemandclass.com.
Furthermore, if you have lost your job and would like some professional help dealing with the issues described, above, maybe we should chat.