Lay off: When Life Grinds to a Halt, Give Yourself a Pace

Brenda Griffin  Get a Job Expert

Give yourself something to work toward – constantly.  -Mary Kay Ash

     It’s odd.  For years, you’ve gone off to work.  Every day you’ve had someplace to be, things to do, people to meet, and a routine.  Following a layoff, there’s this feeling: You are supposed to be somewhere, but where?

     Life is moving for others; they have someplace to be.  Yet, you don’t. Not yet. It seems strange.  Part of you still wants to do what you always did and at the same pace. Except, the reality is, things have changed. There is no pace.

     During those first few weeks after a lay off, don’t be surprised if you feel like you are skipping school. Like you’re about to get caught doing something wrong.  Except, in this case, you didn’t do anything wrong. You lost your job.  Big difference!  No, you are not going to get in trouble. You’re simply in transition.  One you most likely didn’t see coming. It takes time to adjust to the abrupt change of pace.

     Remember, this is temporary.  Eventually, you too will have some place to be.  You will contribute again, use your skills and experience, feel the rewards of a job well done. You will work again!  In the meantime, give yourself a pace. To compete in this job market, you need to maintain the edge:

Have a schedule and stick to it.  Structuring your day is critical for success.  That means getting up, getting dressed and starting your day just like you did before.  Use the tools that work best for you like a Blackberry, Franklin Planner, or Outlook.

Maintain a to-do list. Wake up every day knowing you have plenty to look forward to. You have 8-10 hours to fill so use your time wisely. You now have a new job – looking for a new one!  Don’t forget to include plenty of time for networking.  Round out your schedule with activities and hobbies you enjoy.

Give your mind a work out. Use this season to increase your mental capacity, not drain it. Stay mentally sharp and focused. This includes turning off the TV.  You didn’t watch TV while you were working so there is no need to turn it on now!  Read, take a class, conduct research, do cross word puzzles, or play mind building games. 

Exercise.  Lift your mood and outlook naturally.  Searching takes time.  Not every resume you send will lead to an interview and not every interview will lead to an offer.  To stay motivated, upbeat, and engaged during trying times, find an activity that you love and build time for it into your schedule.

Get out of the house.  Meet someone for breakfast or lunch every day. Allow others to support you in your transition and provide some continuity to your schedule.