# Embracing Change: How to Thrive When Job Loss Happens
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Job Security
In today’s world, the notion of a lifelong job is increasingly unrealistic. I’m sorry to burst that bubble, but it’s true. Personally, I’ve faced job losses twice—once due to a company-wide restructuring and again because of the financial repercussions of COVID-19. Additionally, I’ve been dismissed from a position.
This isn’t meant to frighten you. Your experiences will likely differ from mine, as we all make unique choices. However, it’s crucial to consider: What if you were to lose your job? Would you crumble under the pressure, or would you adapt and move forward?
Photo by Johannes W on Unsplash
If contemplating job loss is too daunting, think about this: Do you truly desire a job for life? Imagine the same title, the same tasks, and the same routine for decades. Is that appealing? If your answer is yes, then congratulations—you are among the rare few who have made it work. Most of us, however, will have a different journey. According to the World Economic Forum, the average individual holds around 12 jobs throughout their career. I’m currently on my sixth, with 25 years until retirement.
Chapter 2: Discovering Your True Path
Photo by Saulo Mohana on Unsplash
What do you aspire to be when you grow up? Unless you’re Peter Pan, avoiding adulthood isn’t an option. I remember being asked this question in high school, and I felt pressured to have a clear answer. Teachers often encouraged us to pursue specific careers through trade schools or universities, but I felt lost. My childhood dream was to be a famous singer in a band, but I deemed that unrealistic and opted for a college course in Music Technology—only to quit after a month.
“You can’t just sit at home,” my mother insisted. But that was my plan; I envisioned writing hit songs and launching my career. “I’ve scheduled you for an appointment with a career advisor,” she announced.
Did I share my music aspirations? No. I reluctantly agreed to meet. To shorten a long story, the advisor read through job listings and asked which I wanted to apply for. “None,” would have been my honest response, but instead, I applied for an Office Junior role and somehow landed the job. Thus began an unexpected 22-year career in administration.
Reflecting on it stings. An accidental career path—how many others share this fate? How many are unhappy because of it? How does that discontent affect your daily life and mental health?
Section 2.1: The Importance of Taking Action
Thinking often holds us back—take action instead! Forget the trivial details; just make a move!
It’s time to be deliberate. What do you genuinely want to pursue? What excites you? I’m not referring to a job title, as those often lack significance.
For over two decades, I found myself in various office roles, from customer service to payroll, all while dreaming of starting my own business at 18. Unfortunately, that dream faded, and I continued working in roles that left me feeling unfulfilled. I often contemplated breaking free but each attempt ended prematurely. Looking back, I understand why: My plans lacked excitement. I tried to fit myself into accounting, but numbers were never my strength—I preferred words. It was like forcing a square peg into a round hole, driven by two reasons: seeking an escape from my current job and the prospect of higher pay. But boredom set in long before I admitted it.
Be honest with yourself—are you pushing yourself down a path that feels wrong? Perhaps it’s time to liberate yourself from that position.
Photo by RODOLFO BARRETO on Unsplash
Section 2.2: Overcoming Procrastination
For 22 years, I clung to administrative roles despite my unhappiness. That’s procrastination at its finest. Each time I considered starting something new, societal expectations held me back. I had bills to pay and responsibilities to manage. Yet, some work environments drained my energy, making it hard to see a way out. But there is always a way forward.
Returning to my initial question: What would you do if you lost your job today? Would you fall apart, or would you adapt swiftly?
I’ve lost three jobs. The first was overwhelming, but it ultimately became liberating. I chose voluntary redundancy out of boredom, and although I floundered initially, I eventually soared. I repeated this with my subsequent job losses—pushed out, yes, but I managed to rise again, each time gaining more confidence.
With each setback, we cultivate resilience, allowing us to bounce back more quickly.
Chapter 3: Cultivating Self-Belief
How to Embrace Change When It Strikes
The secret lies in self-belief. Trust that you can rely on yourself. Have faith in your skills and experiences; they are transferable. For instance, I transitioned from office work to retail management thanks to my administrative background—who would’ve thought?
Do not fear redundancy or termination. There are numerous opportunities available. If you were to lose your job today, you would find another or perhaps even pursue your own venture. The world is full of possibilities—stay alert to them.
You are not stuck. Whether you leave voluntarily, get a new job, or decide to launch a business, you have the power to change your path.
When change disrupts your routine, take note. It may sting, but you will recover. As the Japanese proverb states, "Fall down seven times, get up eight." Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to leave situations that feel wrong. Even if you’re knocked off your feet, rise again. Each time, you’ll come back stronger and more capable.
Be the fierce individual you were meant to be.
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