What do you do if you're struggling to find work-life balance and prioritize self-care after a layoff?

Losing your job can be a disruptive event, often leading to an imbalance in your life and a neglect of self-care. It's important to understand that while your professional identity may feel shaken, this period can also be an opportunity for personal growth and reassessment. During this time, finding a balance between job hunting and personal well-being is crucial. You must navigate the emotions and practicalities of unemployment while maintaining a healthy routine that includes self-care. This can seem daunting, but with a structured approach, you can manage this change effectively and emerge stronger.

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1 Reflect Deeply

After a layoff, take time to reflect on your career path and personal aspirations. This is not just about pondering your next job move but involves a deeper introspection about what you truly value in work and life. Consider the aspects of your previous roles that brought you satisfaction and those that didn't align with your core values. Use this time to reassess goals and identify what balance means to you, setting the stage for a more fulfilling career and life moving forward.

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Sandra Alegria Gamboa

Deoísta disruptiva, creadora de Experiencias inmersivas para la Transformación Cultural. Experta en Gestión del cambio y Apasionada de la Igualdad de Género. Host del Podcast: Change the Office.
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After have run a layoff inside the Organisation, will be really important to give certainty to the employees so it will be mandaatory to share with them the vision for the future. Employees could experience stress as a layoff result and that could trigger an unbalcance in work life, so that, beyond the clear vision, will be essential to run a program where people can attend this issue; some ideas are: open dialogues for expressing their concerns, mindful sessions where they could get tools for managing the stress in their own.

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Suzanne Weller

Lead with courage over comfort | Leadership Coach ◆ Change Practitioner ◆ Speaker | 🎙️ Host of The Courage Effect
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Doing a values assessment is vital at this time. Since they evolve over time, you can prioritize what's most important to you at this point in your life and career and channel your energy to best serve you now.

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2 Routine Matters

Establishing a routine is essential for maintaining a sense of normalcy after a layoff. Create a daily schedule that includes time for job-related activities, self-care, and hobbies. This structure will help you stay productive and reduce feelings of aimlessness. Allocate specific hours for job searching and networking, but also set aside time for exercise, relaxation, and other activities that nourish your well-being. A balanced routine can improve your mood and keep you motivated during this transitional phase.

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Suzanne Weller

Lead with courage over comfort | Leadership Coach ◆ Change Practitioner ◆ Speaker | 🎙️ Host of The Courage Effect
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Having goals -- regardless of how small! -- can really help to keep you motivated. I also recommend "discovery" goals where you challenge yourself to try new things and stay curious. Who knows what it might introduce you to, and what might light a spark?

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3 Stay Connected

Networking is key in finding new opportunities, but it also plays a vital role in maintaining work-life balance. Reach out to former colleagues, industry peers, and friends to discuss potential leads and gather support. These connections can provide emotional support, professional advice, and possibly lead to new job opportunities. Remember, social interaction is a crucial aspect of self-care, so don't isolate yourself during this time.

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4 Embrace Learning

Use the extra time after a layoff to upskill or reskill. Whether it's taking an online course, attending workshops, or simply reading industry-related books, continuous learning can boost your employability and confidence. It also provides a sense of purpose and progress, which is important for your mental health. Investing in your professional development is a proactive way to take control of your situation and prepare for future opportunities.

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5 Manage Finances

Financial stress can significantly impact your work-life balance and mental health after a layoff. Create a budget that prioritizes essential expenses and find ways to reduce unnecessary spending. If needed, seek financial advice to manage your resources effectively during this period. Being proactive about your finances can alleviate stress, allowing you to focus on your well-being and job search without constant worry.

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6 Prioritize Health

Prioritizing your physical and mental health is crucial during the uncertainty of unemployment. Engage in regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, and consider mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga to manage stress. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're struggling emotionally. Taking care of your health is the foundation of resilience and will support you in all other aspects of finding balance and new employment.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Suzanne Weller

Lead with courage over comfort | Leadership Coach ◆ Change Practitioner ◆ Speaker | 🎙️ Host of The Courage Effect
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Although you don't necessarily want to be in this situation, it can also be a gift. How might this be an opportunity for you to grow, challenge yourself, and tell a great story on the other side? Yes, it's uncomfortable and disheartening. But if you dig deep to reflect on who you are and what you want, you can begin to let go of what you're ready to leave behind.

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What do you do if you're struggling to find work-life balance and prioritize self-care after a layoff?

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2

3

4

5

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1 Reflect Deeply

2 Routine Matters

3 Stay Connected

4 Embrace Learning

5 Manage Finances

6 Prioritize Health

7 Here’s what else to consider

Change Management

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What do you do if you're struggling to find work-life balance and prioritize self-care after a layoff?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect Deeply

2 Routine Matters

3 Stay Connected

4 Embrace Learning

5 Manage Finances

6 Prioritize Health

7 Here’s what else to consider

Change Management

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