Here's how you can navigate the emotional impact of a layoff.

When faced with a layoff, first accept the reality of the situation. It's natural to feel emotions like denial, anger, or sadness, but acceptance helps you move forward. This doesn't mean you have to like it, but recognizing it as a starting point for your next chapter allows you to plan your next move effectively.

I recently experienced a layoff after working at the same company for four years, and I can assure you it’s not easy. However, dwelling on why it happened won’t help you move forward. Layoffs are a common experience; after mine, I spoke with many people who had been through similar situations. Although I’m still looking for a new opportunity, I’m confident that, like many others, this setback will ultimately lead to positive outcomes. Always look for a professional therapist if you feel the need!

There will always be two worlds here - in the first, your bosses live, who may have both objective and subjective reasons for your lay-off. In the second, you live, perhaps believing that you were treated unfairly or unworthy of the level of effort you put into the company. The truth will always be somewhere in the middle and you just need to accept the fact that you may never know the true reasons for your dismissal. Fortunately, in today's world of feedback and positive "break-ups", you will most likely be given some information on what areas to improve, so that next time you can do much better.

I just wrote on the above topic, and want to emphasize that seeking professional therapy can be incredibly beneficial. Besides that, talking to loved ones and close work colleagues can make a significant impact during this period. One key practice that has helped me (apart from therapy) is journaling! It allows me to understand my emotions and detach from the negative feelings that come up.

If you've got some feedback of the areas you can improve - that's your go-to sign. Invest more time and effort into education and skill growth and you may find that the next place you will go - can easilt double your previous salary! Your further employers will also highly appreciate the fact that you found enugh courage and strength to accept the feedback and improve yourself accordingly and not just immersed in introspection.

Been almost a decade in Digital Marketing, I found out that the more you are into the industry and networking, the better you understand your own level, skills and competencies. This alone helps you to see yourself around the competition for juicy spots and bargain with your employer if you think you deserve a raise. Aside of above, networking can offer you support and assistance in case you'd stucked with hard career decsisions.