You Just Got Laid Off—Here’s How to Take Control and Bounce Back Fast
Losing a job is a gut punch. It’s easy to let panic, fear, and self-doubt take over. But before your mind spirals into catastrophe mode, take a step back. The truth is, you got laid off—nothing more, nothing less. It’s not a reflection of your worth or abilities. It’s just a fact. Now, what you do next is what matters.
As Tony Robbins says, “See it as it is, but don’t make it worse than it is. See it better than it is, and make it so.”
1. Stop the Mindset Hijack
When faced with uncertainty, your mind might default to worst-case scenarios: “I’ll never find another job,” “I’m a failure,” or “How will I pay my mortgage or rent?” These thoughts feel real, but they aren’t facts. Don’t let your brain hijack your reality. The key is to see the situation exactly as it is—not sugarcoated, but also not exaggerated. You lost a job, not your entire future.
2. Give Yourself Time to Process (But Set a Limit)
Feel what you need to feel—anger, sadness, frustration. But don’t stay in that state indefinitely. Give yourself a set amount of time (a day, a weekend, a week) to process. Then shift gears. Lingering too long in self-pity only deepens the wound.
3. Get Clear on Your Financial Reality
This is not the time for avoidance. Assess your finances:
- What severance (if any) are you getting?
- How much do you have saved?
- What expenses can you cut?
- What unemployment benefits are available
Knowing your financial runway will replace vague anxiety with a clear plan.
4. Reframe: What Opportunity Does This Open?
Getting laid off might feel like an ending, but it could also be the beginning of something better. Maybe you were stuck in a job you didn’t love. Maybe this is the push you needed to pursue a different path. Instead of seeing it as just a loss, ask: What can I learn?
5. Take Tactical Action
Now, it’s time to move forward. Here’s where to start:
- Update Your Resume and LinkedIn: Keep it fresh and reflect your best work. Resume and Online Profile Builder Toolkits will help you do this easily.
- Network Strategically: Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and friends. Let them know you’re looking. Our Networking Toolkit has scripts and tools to keep you organized.
- Apply Smart, Not Desperate: Be intentional about your next move. Don’t just apply everywhere—apply where you truly want to work. Our Job Search Strategy Toolkit will help you prioritize and make sure you are attacking the job market in a smart, intentional way.
- Upskill if Needed: Use this time to sharpen skills or gain new ones to make yourself more competitive.
- Join DIY Job Search Toolkits: Take advantage of comprehensive resources like the resume builder, job search strategy toolkit, online profile kit, networking toolkit, Career Wayfinder toolkit, and interview prep toolkit. And up to 2 hours of live support with our career coaches, who can talk through any challenges you are facing, help you prep for your next interview and answer any questions you might have about your search.
This is a chapter, not your whole story.
Most people experience job loss at some point. What separates those who bounce back from those who stay stuck is mindset and action. See the situation for what it is, recognize what’s in your control, and move forward. The next opportunity is coming—just make sure you’re ready for it when it does.
