Design Your World

How to thrive during a layoff or a change in economic conditions

A question I get asked often: How do I avoid getting laid off?

My short answer: It's unavoidable despite your best efforts.

Here's why...

Companies are expanding and consolidating at an even faster rate thanks to technology, budget surpluses, the stock market, change in government policies, the economy shareholder dividends and bonuses. It's a regular day on Wall Street while the impact is felt on main street.

For the soul on the street, layoffs and changes in the economy are stressful to deal with especially if you don't have strong financial foundation in place to take care of your needs. I've been in a similar position more than once.

Here are my tips design your world (own reality) to thrive on your own terms:

1) Dust It Off ???:

• Leave the baggage behind—disagreements, broken relationships, and energy-sapping narratives. If your feeds constantly report bad news, turn it off. Focus on the opportunities ahead without distractions. That negative juju may mess with your head and your mojo is too precious to be messed with! Keep your energy clear and clean.

2) You Are Awakening ??:

• Choose your perspective wisely. Are you taking the blue pill of worry and stress, or the red pill of recognising your talents and creating better opportunities? What is it that you really want in the next opportunity? Your beliefs shape your reality—make them empowering! Then, double their power.

3) This Too Shall Pass:

• It may hurt to hear this as you're going through a rough time. A wise leader, Marshall Goldsmith , once said these words to me when I sought his advice when I was struggling under a bad economy & unhappy workplace + role. I couldn't hear him then because of the gravity of things (I was overwhelmed). My constant reminder since.
• Know that it's not as bad as our minds perceive and you will get through this moment. This too shall pass.
• This too shall pass.

4) Numbers Game 1??2??3??:

• Quality over quantity! Be specific and targeted in your job applications. List your criterion and search keywords - don't reduce them to job titles alone. Your unique skills and competencies deserve the best match.

5) Write, Talk & Share ??:

• Be mindful of long, sustained periods of isolation. Internalising your words, overwhelming thoughts and negative beliefs on repeat may flood your nervous system.
• Talking, writing and sharing whether in 1-on-1 or (trusted) group settings or online helps you to be seen and heard. Also gives you the chance to pause, consider and self-feedback what's true and not.
• Got some funds available? Start investing in building your mental fitness or commit to a regular development plan. Loads of free & paid resources to choose from.
• At times, it's the external feedback that we need to hear to know that we are making sense, that we are not crazy.

6) Start a Side Hustle ??:

• Gen X'ers had it all in one basket - a job; not today! We'll start seeing more working professionals having dual income to keep the lights on. Run a side business alongside your job. Learn, grow, partner up, diversify, and high-five your future self.
• Great to have eggs in different baskets. Keeps the lights on and lets you have your life.
• See next point.

7) Learn Marketing and AI ????:

• Stay ahead of the game! AI is evolving, and marketing is here to stay. Embrace both to future-proof your skill set. Remember, knowledge is power, especially in the age of automation.
• Autonomous businesses will be rage - you'll find opportunities as you keep upskilling.

8) Add Value to Your Community ??:

• A natural response might be to conserve and withdraw. Instead, dive into your local community's needs. Solve problems or create opportunities with your skills and competencies and develop relationships.
• Mental health, personal safety, sustainability, and accessibility are gold mines of untapped potential. See point 4.

9) Good Cashflow is King ??; Have a Plan:

• In any business- good cashflow is king. Cultivate a steady cash flow; it's the lifeblood that fuels growth.
• Plan for that money else you'll lose sight of it.
• Strong revenue performance doesn't necessarily equate to actual cash in the bank or cash register.
• Seek funding or grants to spur your ideas forward. Crowdsource!

10) Keep the Solution Simple & Costs Low ??:

• In a world enamoured with complex solutions, simplicity is your secret weapon. Leverage technology wisely; a pencil can be mightier than a gravity-defying pen (see space pen). Keep costs low and your solutions will speak volumes.

Remember, create the matrix you need to thrive. Your journey is unique, and the opportunities are boundless. It's not just about surviving the layoff—it's about sculpting a future that's uniquely yours. ???

#Thriving #AI #MentalFitness #PersonalLeadership