This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
Not kidding.
And here’s why.
When a job exits your life, you can sit in solitude with your thoughts to ponder what is the next best move for you.
Most people don’t take the time to do this.
Instead of rushing as most people do into the next role (usually because of economics, which I chat about at the end of this article), taking your time to be thoughtful will help you experience more job satisfaction in your next role.
And let’s talk about it…
…most people are dissatisfied with their jobs.
It’s safe even to say that many people hate their jobs.
The First Layoff
The first time I experienced a layoff several years ago was a fascinating learning experience.
But more importantly, I had an interview that same day and quickly bagged an offer. That same week I had another interview and got an offer there.
There has never been a time in my life experience where a layoff has unsettled me; usually, I had the foresight to see it coming and was always ten steps ahead. Furthermore, the next opportunities I obtain tend always to be ten times better.
Layoffs are always positive unless you’re living above your means (more about this at the end of this article) or experience some kind of employment tragedy in the process.
They allow you to rest mentally and question what you desire next for your career.
Most People Fear Being Laid Off…
…which is also why many employees walk on eggshells around their bosses and counterparts.
They don’t want to stir the pot or compromise their consistent paycheck.
This constant fear affects their work negatively, and at some point, many people end up being laid off.
Whatever you focus on, you end up attracting.
Remember the law of attraction?
If you’ve been laid off, what is your plan?
As I continue to chat with students daily, many face fears about being laid off and no longer have a job. I quickly remind them the ball is in their court.
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And I ask the same question to you: what is your plan if you’ve been laid off?
For most people, their answer is “get another job.”
That’s a fine answer, but the more specific you can be, then your outcome will be better.
When your objective is to “just get another job,” you’ll probably reach it, but it will likely not be anything you love.
Before you get another job, decide what matters most to you. Is it:
Fun
Salary
Culture
People
Flexibility
Responsibilities
Meaningful work
Mental well-being
Work-Life-Balance
Work that comes natural
Decide what’s most important to you before you commence your job search so you know exactly where you’re headed.
And always write your objective down, so you’re reminded of your chief aim.
Don’t Do A Repeat Work Experience
Maybe you feel relief after getting let go because you don’t have to deal with specific responsibilities or people anymore.
Pay attention to these things; they’re very telling what you should aim to avoid in your next role.
Don’t be the employee that accepts anything.
It’s okay to be picky about the job you want to work.
The Accept, Then Move Up Strategy
Some people accept the first offer for economics sake, and then move up as they continue applying, but it wastes the employer’s time when you do this.
Try to be mindful of their time, effort, and energy, which I know doesn’t seem like the best idea when a company has randomly laid you off, but kindness always finds its way back to you.
Saying Goodbye
There was one company I walked away from, resulting in six months without full-time work.
During that time, I was intentional about the next company I desired to work for and ended up scoring the best role with a company I had always dreamt of working with, but if I hadn’t taken my time, I might not have experienced that opportunity.
If you’re willing to be patient, you can land your dream role.
Do You Need Economic Assistance
If you’re in economic trouble after being laid off, check out the following article: 10 Ways To Find Money After You Get Laid Off
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This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.