The Emotional Toll of Career Change

Dealing with a major career transition, especially due to a lay-off, is extremely similar to the cycle of grief. You can expect, and it is perfectly natural, to experience this cycle of emotions. They do not come orderly, and you may transition from one to another, and back again. The thrill ride of dealing with a career transition is a true test of bravery!

You need a healthy understanding of the cycle of grief, proper outlets for expressing your feelings, methods to deal with the accompanying emotions, and a plan to move forward with your career transition.

Let me help you briefly with one key part of this right now: Telling Friends and Family.

You need strong allies to help you through this transition, and you need all the contacts and network outlets you can find to identify new opportunities. Telling Friends and Family is the first step in accomplishing both of these goals.

1. Who, besides you, are going to be most impacted physically and/or emotionally by your career transition?
2. Each person may need a different form of communication. List some possible ways you will address the change to parents, spouse/partner, children, and friends.
3. What assurance can you give about your plans, resources, and efforts (already), to move forward in your career? 

If you are in the market for a career change right now, (or advising others who are), and this material was helpful, check out The STAR Career Workbook. New and updated in January, 2019, this book will guide you through the hard work toward a more rewarding career. It will help you assess your values and strengths, refine your vision and craft your message. It provides tools for developing your resume, cover letters and other communication tools; as well as networking plans, interview preparations, and negotiating strategies.

It is very affordable and quickly available on Amazon at http://bit.ly/STARcareerworkbook