What do you do if you're feeling demotivated and distracted during a UED layoff?

1 Acknowledge your feelings

The first step to overcoming a layoff is to acknowledge and accept your feelings. It's normal to feel angry, sad, frustrated, or scared after losing your job, especially if you loved what you did and invested a lot of time and energy into it. Don't suppress or deny your emotions, but rather express them in healthy ways, such as talking to someone you trust, writing in a journal, or doing something creative. By acknowledging your feelings, you can process them and move on to the next stage of your recovery.

2 Update your portfolio

One of the most important things you can do after a layoff is to update your portfolio. Your portfolio is your showcase of your UED skills, projects, and achievements, and it's essential to have it ready and polished when you apply for new opportunities. Review your portfolio and make sure it reflects your current level of expertise, your unique value proposition, and your design process. Add any recent or relevant work that you're proud of, and remove any outdated or irrelevant pieces. Also, make sure your portfolio is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and responsive to different devices.

3 Learn new skills

Another way to stay motivated and distracted after a layoff is to learn new skills that can enhance your UED career. Learning new skills can help you fill any gaps in your knowledge, keep up with the latest trends and tools, and demonstrate your passion and curiosity for UED. You can learn new skills by taking online courses, reading books or blogs, watching videos or podcasts, or joining webinars or workshops. You can also practice your skills by doing personal projects, taking on freelance gigs, or participating in design challenges or hackathons.

4 Network with others

Networking is crucial for finding new UED opportunities, getting referrals, and receiving feedback and support. Networking can help you stay in touch with your former colleagues and clients, expand your contacts, and discover new leads or openings. You can network with others by reaching out to your existing connections, asking for introductions or recommendations, joining online communities or forums, attending events or meetups, or volunteering for causes or organizations. When you network, be genuine, respectful, and helpful, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice.

5 Take care of yourself

Finally, don't forget to take care of yourself during a layoff. A layoff can take a toll on your physical and mental health, so it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a positive mindset. Take care of yourself by following a regular routine, setting realistic goals, exercising regularly, eating well, sleeping enough, and relaxing or meditating. Also, try to find joy and meaning in other aspects of your life, such as your hobbies, interests, family, or friends. By taking care of yourself, you can boost your confidence, resilience, and well-being.

6 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?