Here's how you can transform a layoff into personal and professional growth.

I repurposed what I learned in the job to create a whole business. Yes, it is disheartening to get laid off when you've become totally dependent on that position/job, but if you are released to find your true purpose, being laid off can become the catalyst for you living the life you should have been living all along. Take what you have learned and use it to become a better version of yourself. I did.

When in 2018 the company I worked closed in 10 of hte countries I was HR Business Partner, having the best time of my career, I was quite sad. That was one of the best companies I had worked for, and I was not planning to leave so quick. But the first thing I did was not look for the next job, but rather stop - for the first time in my career I stopped and asked myself "Suzana what do you want?"... and that was so powerful to what I did next... The quick thing you may want to do is become anxious and start looking for the next job... but rather pause, ask questions, assess, reflect... you may find a beautiful treasure inside and some hiden talents too.

Applying design thinking principles from Stanford’s “Designing Your Life” program can transform a layoff into a growth opportunity. Begin with curiosity: explore new interests and conduct informational interviews to uncover different career paths. Reframe the layoff as a chance for development, not a setback. Prototype potential new roles through part-time work, volunteering, or shadowing in fields that intrigue you. Use iteration, adjusting your approach based on feedback from each experience. This process enhances resilience and adaptability, turning change into an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Transform a layoff into personal and professional growth by viewing it as an opportunity to reassess your goals, learn new skills, and explore different career paths. Use this time to network, take relevant courses, and pursue passions, turning the setback into a chance for reinvention and advancement.

A layoff is a great way to hit Reset and really do some self-reflection around what kind of work you want to be doing. You can continue in your current industry or you can make a pivot. Many successful people have taken advantage of a layoff to rebrand and pivot their careers to embrace a new industry or skill set.

Acknowledge the fact that there is a need to improve yourself. Then use the gap as an opportunity to focus on learning new skills, courses and certifications. Upskill and reskill to adapt to the current needs of the market.

En momentos de cambio es muy importante conectarse con otros para recibir apoyo emocional, ideas, nuevas perspectivas para reinventarse si fuera necesario. Nuestras redes no deberían activarse cuando necesitamos algo, lo ideal es mantenernos genuinamente vinculados, estando siempre dispuestos a ayudar y apoyar a los demas

Networking can feel lopsided - you're asking for something and they have to "give" you something, namely their time let alone another contact. So, make it a game. Make a list of 120 people you know. Prioritize them into categories A, B and C. An A is someone you can easily call and enroll onto your team OR a hot prospect who is hiring. B and C are concentric circles of connection out from the A's. Start reaching out to them to meet or have a call. Share with them what you are doing and what you are looking for. Ask them to connect you with two other people whom they think you should know. Grow your list from there. Cherish the time to build relationships that you will have for a long time... not just during your job search.

This is what helped me. Incorporate physical activity into your routine. It could be as simple as a daily walk, a yoga session, or a quick workout. Focus on balanced, nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up. Dedicate time to hobbies that make you happy, whether it's reading, painting, or gardening. Spend quality time with friends and family to stay connected and supported. Plan your day with a mix of job search activities and personal time. This structure can provide a sense of accomplishment and balance. Break down big goals into smaller, achievable tasks. Celebrating these small wins can keep you motivated. Write down positive affirmations and place them where you can see them daily to foster a positive mindset.

If you’ve been hit by a layoff, take advantage of the time off to travel, spend dedicated time with family who live far away, or to take on passion projects that bring you joy. Instead of jumping right back into the job search, it is a wonderful time to re-focus back on yourself. Staying balanced shows future employers that you are in control of your life and know how to be resilient.

Spend each night with a drink of your choice and a journal. Reflect on the day's activity appointment by appointment. Write out what you learned, what you wish you had done, what you wish you had asked. Make a list of people you need to follow up with. Spend this time reflecting on your process. Do this for a month, you will be shocked what you will add to your thinking and how the trajectory of your efforts will increase geometrically upon reflecting on them each night.