Losing a job shakes more than your schedule.
It can rattle your identity, your confidence, and your sense of security.
The early days are often a blur of emotions including shock, anger, grief, and uncertainty.
There’s no single “right way” to navigate this.
I believe there are three helpful modes to move between: Deal. Dream. Divert.
Each serves a purpose.
Each offers a way forward.
And each can be done alone or with others.
DEAL: Process What Just Happened
Before you plan your next move, take time to feel what you’re feeling.
Tackle it head on.
You don’t have to pretend you’re fine.
Alone:
- Journal about your emotions from rage to relief, fear, and hope. All of it.
- Write a letter to your former employer (you won’t send it).
- Create a job eulogy writing about all the things you loved about the role.
- Try a guided meditation for grief or transition.
With others:
- Talk to a therapist or career coach.
- Host a vent session with a trusted friend. Set a timer, let it out.
- Join a layoff support group (local or online).
DREAM: Reimagine What’s Possible
When one chapter ends, another begins.
Even if you didn’t want the ending, you still get to write what’s next.
Take some time to imagine the road ahead.
Alone:
- Journal to the prompt: What does my life look like in 5 years?
- Make a “things I’ve always wanted to try” list.
- Create a vision board (paper, digital, or Pinterest-style).
With others:
- Co-host a future-mapping session with a friend. Dream big together.
- Make a list of at least 30 jobs you would love to do.
- Join a workshop or class that feels energizing, even if it’s unrelated to your career.
DIVERT: Take a Break from the Spiral
Our thoughts can get into a negative doom spiral during this time.
Sometimes, the best move is to do something that diverts your attention.
Get your mind, your hands, and/or your body moving to take your mind elsewhere.
Alone:
- Read a book or watch a movie to escape into another world for just a bit.
- Try an adult coloring book, reverse coloring, or Zentangle.
- Do a jigsaw puzzle, play a video game or build something with your hands.
With others:
- Plan a “nothing about work” hangout with a friend.
- Host a game night or puzzle party.
- Go to a museum, a movie, or an improv show.
Summary
You don’t have to do all of these.
Just pick one from each column.
One way to deal.
One way to dream.
One way to divert.
Repeat as needed.
You don’t need to bounce back.
You get to build forward.
Your Turn
Which “deal” activity do you need most right now?
What’s one dream you haven’t given yourself permission to say out loud?
How will you take a break from overthinking today?