Life after the Pink Slip...
CORPORATE divorce is as painful and traumatic as a marital divorce. The `divorce papers' served as pink slips can leave one feeling totally worthless. Let's face it, losing a job is always a possibility. So it is better to be prepared for the worst.
Let us suppose you are handed the pink slip, the first important thing to be done is to take a hold on oneself. Once you have dealt with the emotional turmoil it is time to move on and take care of all things practical. You must first understand the reason behind this divorce. If the company was downsizing and you are one of the many employees who lost their jobs, then rest assured, that it is not your lack of ability that made you lose your job. Another question you might want to ask is, do you want to continue in the same industry? Or do you want to learn some new skills or take up an additional course or higher educational degree? Just look at it like a chance that life has offered you to make yourself more marketable.
It is not just important but essential that we look at a job loss as an opportunity. Take some time to understand and appreciate the time that you have been given. Consider options that you have not thought of before. Consider relocating. Consider a career change. These are good options but not necessarily things that we consider when in a safe and secure job. Now is the time to look for a possible new turn of events.
After we have come to terms with all matters emotional and practical, it is time to move on. One needs to decide where to go from here.
Routine. You need not break your daily routine, simply because you don't have to go to work. The schedule would require changes, but your regular activities must be continued.
Try and develop a schedule that works for your new circumstances and helps you stay focused on finding a new job. Resist the temptation to sleep late, watch television all day, or fritter away time on activities that won't help your job search. It may help to think of your search for new employment as a full or part-time job. At the same time, enjoy your life by indulging in activities you did not have time for earlier.
Checklist. It may help to make a list of things you need to do to help you stay focused. Use this time to do things that will help you in your new job. Don't try to do too much in one day— that can be self-defeating. Do one thing at a time and the sense of accomplishment will give you confidence.
Financial Management. Staying on top of your finances is the most important thing to do in a situation like this. It is time to know what your income and expenses are. Develop a financial plan to get yourself through the next several months. You will be surprised to find that your financial plan will reveal possibilities, rather than present restrictions.
Slow down your pace of life. After having lived your life in a hectic frenzy, assume that this is the break that you very well deserve. It is time to relax, to "smell the flowers". Spend time with your family. Indulge in vocations and hobbies that interest you. Let us all understand that in this world of uncertainty, any relationship is liable to turn sour- professional or personal. The key to handling a broken relationship is a positive attitude and to make the best out of every situation.
HAZIRA SHAHEEN
faqs@cnkonline.com
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