By Sam Ast, re-entry workforce development specialist, Goodwill of Western Missouri & Eastern Kansas (Kansas City, MO)
This blog details various ways individuals can work around unwelcome developments in the world of work. Layoffs, demotions, falling short of expectations, terminations and much more are common occurrences that individuals must come to terms with every year, all of which bring their own set of challenges. It is crucial to respond appropriately and prevent these events from setting you completely off-course. If you are experiencing any of these issues or are simply interested in the subject, keep reading to gain more insight.
At some point in your career, you will witness firsthand the effects of negative work outcomes as professionals in every industry often do. General reductions in staffing, widespread layoffs, facing disciplinary actions and having projects or responsibilities taken away are all momentous events that have a strong potential to cause profound disruption to your daily routine, not to mention a loss of faith in your abilities.
Not all of these situations are in your control, though. The extent of any personal liability or level of involvement in producing these results remains beyond the scope of this article. Rather, what is important here is your reaction. How well you conduct yourself and adapt to these changes remains paramount to a swift recovery, continued occupational progress and general well-being.
Staying Positive and Productive
During these times of change, it is advisable to keep a positive attitude. This is easier said than done. When daily responsibilities, schedules and patterns are interrupted, it can be very jarring. Depending on the circumstances, you might experience some gloomy days. Maybe you begin to doubt your worth and talents. Perhaps you are upset with yourself and your newfound unemployment. You could also be apprehensive because you know how much work you’ll need to put in to successfully move toward what is next for you.
For a while, your life might seem chaotic and your days unstructured. Experiencing all or some of this is natural, and distressful emotions are a frequent part of life. That said, if you are between work, try filling your free time with positive, productive and enjoyable activities. If you are struggling on the job, ask for help and try to find opportunities to practice more and improve your skills. In the long run, moving forward and maintaining a positive attitude will depend in large part on your capacity to not dwell on the past. To do so, you must at some point finish licking your wounds, brush off the rest of the dirt and contemplate your professional future.
Focus on the Future
No matter the severity or intensity of the problem, setting goals to resolve the issue is a smart move. Make sure they are sensible, strategic and developed in a way that is intended to hold yourself accountable. If you can stay focused, relevant solutions will eventually present themselves. Deploying these techniques will assist you in addressing any additional obstacles that could arise. By incorporating a forward-looking, future-focused mindset into any remedial approach, you can be sure that your action plans are well formulated and that you are prepared for what is needed to excel at your current place of work or, if need be, to find new employment altogether.
Reach Out for Support
With hundreds of career centers providing essential resources and personalized support, Goodwill® can help people facing employment challenges overcome challenges and find meaningful work. Our career navigators are committed to helping you make your dreams come true by offering career guidance, résumé assistance, skills certification, application help, interview prep and ongoing support, including financial assistance that can support you in your journey to find work.
Remember, you are not alone. If you need assistance with career readiness, developing marketable job skills or overall counseling regarding any of your employment needs or questions, we are here for you! Please stop by a Goodwill career center to learn more about how Goodwill can help you.
