Staying Grounded: How to Move Forward After Surviving a Layoff

When layoffs happen, it’s not just those who are let go who feel the impact. If you’re still standing after a round of layoffs, it can stir up a complicated mix of emotions—relief, gratitude, and a heavy dose “survivor’s guilt.” It’s that sinking feeling in your stomach that says, “Why them and not me?” It’s completely normal to feel this way, and navigating these emotions along with everything going on in your company is a journey in itself.

In this weeks newsletter, we’ll explore how to manage those complex emotions, stay grounded, and navigate the changes that come with surviving a layoff. By acknowledging your feelings and taking intentional steps, you can find your own path forward in this new landscape.

What to Do with Your Survivor’s Guilt

First things first: feel your feels. It’s okay to feel a sense of guilt about still having your job when others don’t. These emotions are a natural response to a difficult situation. Try to channel your feelings into something positive when you can. Remember, it’s not your fault that these decisions were made, and feeling guilty won’t change the situation.

Take Your Time to Mourn the Change in Your Company

Layoffs are a loss, plain and simple. They represent a loss of colleagues, a loss of the company culture you once knew, and a loss of stability. It’s important to give yourself time to mourn these changes. Acknowledge that your workplace won’t be the same as it was before, and that’s okay. It’s about processing the change, letting go of what was, and eventually finding acceptance. Take a moment to reflect on the good times, the people you’ll miss, and what those experiences meant to you. Then, when you’re ready, start thinking about how you can contribute to the new chapter ahead of you and your company.

Expect Things to Change

One of the hardest things about surviving a layoff is dealing with the changes that inevitably follow. Workloads shift, teams are restructured, and the overall atmosphere may feel different. It’s crucial to recognize that change is part of the process. Expectations and responsibilities might evolve, and you might be asked to take on new roles or adapt to new ways of working. Instead of resisting these changes, try to see them as opportunities for growth. Flexibility will be your greatest asset during this time, allowing you to navigate the transition with more ease.

Accept That There’s a Lot You’ll Never Know

One of the most frustrating aspects of layoffs is the lack of transparency. You might have questions like, “Why them?” or “How were these decisions made?” But the truth is, there’s a lot about the layoff process that you’ll never know. It’s tough, but accepting this uncertainty is crucial for your mental health. Speculating and searching for answers that may never come will only fuel your anxiety and distract you from moving forward. Instead, focus on what you do know and what you can control—your own actions, your work, and how you show up.

Review and Update Communication Channels in Your Company

In the aftermath of layoffs, communication becomes more important than ever. The flow of information can make or break how smoothly your team adjusts to the new normal. Take this time to review and update the communication channels in your company. Are there new reporting structures? Have team dynamics shifted? Make sure that everyone knows how to reach the right people, where to get information, and how decisions are being communicated. Clarity is key to preventing misunderstandings and keeping everyone on the same page. If you notice any gaps in communication, bring them up with your manager or HR. Improving communication now will pay off in the long run.

Connect with Your Previous Colleagues and Offer Support Where You Can

Just because your former colleagues are no longer with the company doesn’t mean your connection to them has to end. If you have the emotional capacity, reach out to them, but don't expect them to respond right away or ever. Remember that they are navigating their own feelings too. If you do connect, let them know that you’re thinking of them and offer your support, whether it’s helping them network, providing a reference, or just being a listening ear. These gestures might seem small, but they can make a big difference to someone going through a tough time.

Surviving a layoff isn’t just about keeping your job—it’s about navigating the emotional and professional challenges that come with it. By acknowledging your feelings, accepting the changes, and staying connected with both your current team and former colleagues, you can move forward in a way that honors the past while embracing the future. It’s not an easy road, but with compassion for yourself and others, you can find your footing and help build a stronger, more resilient future in the process.

Hi, I'm Brittany. I help professionals get unstuck from challenges in their career and partner with them through 1:1 coaching to come out the other side with clarity and confidence. 

If you are ready to get more clear and confident in your career, I'd love to work with you! I offer 1:1 coaching packages starting at $750 (with payment plans available). Book a free Discovery Call & Coaching Session today.