When we lose our job, we know our career and finances have been impacted.
The stress and worry hit immediately.
What might take longer to realize is the impact on the other six dimensions of well-being:
Physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and environmental.
The changes in these areas are often overshadowed in the early days.
Occupational and financial well-being steal the limelight.
Below is a summary of how each of the eight dimensions is impacted.
And some quick-start ideas to begin to get some sense of control.
Occupational Wellbeing
Our careers are more than just paychecks, they give us a sense of purpose, structure, and identity.
When a job is lost, so is the rhythm of our days and the confidence that comes with having a professional role.
Questions about our skills, worth, and future direction flood in.
Idea: Set short-term goals, even as small as applying for one job or reaching out to three contacts this week. Small wins rebuild momentum.
Financial Wellbeing
Losing a job means an immediate hit to income and an uncertain financial future.
Bills still need to be paid, and long-term plans may need to be adjusted.
The unknowns feel overwhelming.
Idea: Spend a day figuring out your financial floor. This is the minimum amount your life costs each month. While you search for a job, you know the monthly gap to fill during those months.
Social Wellbeing
We often don’t realize the social aspect of our job until it goes away.
Friends and coworkers just disappear.
On top of the absence is an uncertainty about reaching out (on both sides).
Those who remain may feel guilty it wasn’t them and may not know what to say.
Those who are affected can feel embarrassed or ashamed to be the one to reach out.
Idea: Reach out. Schedule coffee or lunch with co-workers. This may feel awkward, but it will be well worth it to keep strong networks and ties moving into the future.
Emotional Wellbeing
The emotional toll a job loss takes is underestimated by anyone who hasn’t gone through the experience.
The emotions are like a roller coaster and can pattern the grief process one goes through with the loss of a loved one.
Shock, denial, anger, sadness, and self-doubt can all emerge.
Idea: Give yourself permission to feel. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, seeking a career coach or therapist can all help process the emotions rather than letting them build up.
Intellectual Wellbeing
Work challenges us to learn and grow.
Without it, our minds can feel stagnant or under-stimulated.
A job loss can make us question our skills, or worse, make us feel like we’re falling behind.
Idea: Engage in learning. Read a book in your industry, take an online course, or attend a webinar. Keeping your brain engaged helps with confidence and momentum. However, do your best to resist spending large amounts of money on advanced degrees and certificates if those aren’t needed.
Environmental Wellbeing
Our physical surroundings play a huge role in how we feel.
Without a structured work environment, our home space may suddenly feel too isolated, cluttered, or chaotic.
On the flip side, our home can be designed for relaxation.
This can make it challenging to find an area where we can focus and dig deep into our job search.
Idea: Refresh your workspace. Even if you’re job hunting from home, create a dedicated, organized area to help signal productivity and motivation.
Physical Wellbeing
Stress from job loss can manifest physically in many ways.
We can have disrupted sleep, headaches, or find ourselves emotionally eating (or loss of appetite).
The lack of daily movement that comes with commuting or an active job can also negatively impact our energy levels.
Idea: Move your body daily. A walk outside, stretching, or a home workout can help reset our mood and keep stress levels in check.
Spiritual Wellbeing
For many, work provides a sense of purpose.
Losing a job can shake deeper questions about meaning, direction, and what truly matters.
Idea: Reflect on what fulfills you beyond your career. Whether through meditation, prayer, volunteering, or spending time in nature, reconnecting with your values can help you navigate this transition with resilience.
Summary
If you have lost your job (or know someone who has), consider how to support each dimension of wellbeing.
What you are experiencing isn’t unique.
Don’t be ashamed or feel like you are overreacting.
Take the time and nurture every dimension of your wellbeing.
Your Turn
Have you experienced job loss at some point in your career?
Do you recognize these impacts from your experience or that of your family & friends?
Could these tips help provide support on the journey?