The start of a new year often pushes us to think about our careers. For Kristina O’Neill and Laura Brown, two editors who faced job loss due to company restructures, it was a turning point. Initially, they felt crushed. “I put my heart into my work,” Laura reflects. Yet, they chose to be open about their experiences. They argue that clearly acknowledging job loss can be liberating. They say, “Embrace it. The sooner you own it, the faster you can move on.”
Now, both are thriving in new roles. Laura runs her own media company, while Kristina is the editor-in-chief for Sotheby’s magazine. If you’re navigating job loss or seeking a career shift, here are four practical strategies to consider:
### 1. Reflect on the Past Year
Taking a step back to evaluate the last year can give you clarity. Sarah Ellis, co-founder of Squiggly Careers, suggests reflecting on what energizes you and what doesn’t. It’s easy to focus on recent events, but looking at the bigger picture matters. “Identify themes from your successes,” she encourages. Laura adds it’s important to understand how your job impacts your life. Remember, work is just one part of who you are.
### 2. Take Small Steps
Transitioning to a new career doesn’t have to happen all at once. Sarah took seven years to move from a corporate job to running her own company, making gradual changes along the way. She suggests a “try before you buy” approach—like volunteering or exploring new projects at your current job. If it doesn’t feel right, you’ll know before making a huge commitment. Small “bridging roles” can also help you transition without feeling a rush.
### 3. Remember Your Achievements
Job loss can feel personal, but it often isn’t. In fact, layoffs are becoming more common; recent figures show redundancies are at their highest levels since 2021. Laura notes how vital it is to recognize that your skills remain valuable regardless of job changes. Acknowledging your achievements can restore your confidence. Kristina emphasizes, “The shame of being fired is mostly mental. Remember, your worth isn’t defined by your job status.”
### 4. Create a Career Checklist
When feeling pressure to find new work, it’s tempting to apply for any position. However, that can lead to unhappiness. Sarah recommends “scanning” job descriptions that interest you. Browse platforms like LinkedIn and collect a list of roles that appeal to you. Identify common keywords; they can reveal what truly matters to you. Laura urges you to think about what aspects of work have previously made you happy or unhappy. This reflection can guide you, helping you avoid missteps in your job search.
Navigating career changes or job loss can be daunting. However, by reflecting, taking small steps, remembering your value, and aligning your search with your true interests, you can confidently chart a new course for your future.
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