1) Accept responsibility for your life
2) Be objective
3) Know your inner resources
4) Take a positive approach
5) Be realistic and flexible
6) Recognize the danger signs
7) Don’t attempt to cope alone
8) Take it one step at a time
9) Take control of your life
Thus far, we’ve discussed mainly the unpleasant side of a layoff, and ways to cope with the tough times. Let’s take a moment to explore the flip-side of the coin, so to speak, the silver lining they say exists in each cloud.
Can you identify anything positive that has resulted from your layoff? When asked this question, many interviewed people were able to identify the gains quickly. For others, it took more serious reflection and a real open mind before they could acknowledge one or two positive changes created by the lay-off.
The following is a sampling of some of the benefits interviewees identified as a result of their layoffs:
– More time with spouse/partner
– More time with children
– More time for hobbies/leisure activities
– Time for self
– Time to get involved in community activities/volunteer work
– Reduced level of stress
– Opportunity to explore options (new occupation, retraining, etc.)
– A fresh start
– Increase in salary and benefits at a new job
– Time to participate in specialized interest courses
– Severance provided income to start a new business
– Opportunity to make a much-needed change
– Re-organized priorities
– New friends/contacts
So, Where’s the Silver Lining?
© Wordscapes® David Turner). All Rights Reserved.
