Navigating the Storm: Finding Optimism After Being Fired During the Holiday By Chris Wilkins

The holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness.?

But what happens when this festive season is overshadowed by the unexpected news of being fired??

It can feel like a punch to the gut, leaving you reeling and uncertain about the future.?

However, this challenging experience can also be a catalyst for growth and new opportunities.?

Here’s how to navigate this storm with optimism and resilience.

Embrace the Emotions

First and foremost, allow yourself to feel. It's natural to experience a whirlwind of emotions—anger, sadness, fear, and even relief.?

When I was let go from my Corporate Finance Role of 4 years in early December 2024 I felt CRUSHED, confused, lost and a bit depressed.

How could this happen? what did I do to derserve this? Christmas is in 3 weeks, how can a sustain this?

Acknowledge these feelings without judgment.?

Bottling them up will only prolong the healing process.?

Talk to friends, family, or a professional to help process your emotions.

Reflect and Reassess

Once the initial shock has passed, take some time to reflect on your career path.?

What did you enjoy about your previous job??

What didn’t you like? Use this period to reassess your goals and aspirations.?

This introspection can provide valuable insights and help you align your next steps with your true passions and strengths.

Update Your Resume and Online Presence

With a clearer sense of direction, update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills, achievements, and the new goals you’ve set.?

Highlight any accomplishments and experiences that showcase your value to potential employers.?

A polished and up-to-date online presence can make a significant difference in your job search.

Network, Network, Network

The power of networking cannot be overstated.?

Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts.?

Attend virtual or in-person networking events and join professional groups related to your field.

?Networking can open doors to opportunities that you might not find through traditional job search methods.

Stay Positive and Persistent

Job searching can be a lengthy and sometimes discouraging process. It’s essential to stay positive and persistent. Set small, achievable goals for yourself each day, whether it’s applying for a certain number of jobs, reaching out to contacts, or learning a new skill. Celebrate these small victories to keep your spirits high.

Embrace New Opportunities

Sometimes, being fired can lead to unexpected and exciting opportunities. Be open to exploring different industries or roles that you might not have considered before. This could be the perfect time to pivot your career or start that business you’ve always dreamed of.

Practice Self-Care

Amidst the job search, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Exercise regularly, eat healthily, and get enough sleep. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Self-care is crucial for maintaining your mental and physical well-being during this transitional period.

Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling to find a new job or feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking help from a career coach or counselor. They can provide guidance, support, and resources to help you navigate the job market and stay motivated.

Keep the Faith

Lastly, keep the faith. Remember that this setback is temporary and that you have the strength and resilience to overcome it. Stay focused on your goals, remain optimistic, and trust that the right opportunity will come your way.

A great piece of advice I reminded myself of was that I had been through tough times in the past and had been victorious. disassembly just a new addition of tribulation and trial, something that I am not new to by any stretch of the imagination. far too many times we give too much on this on our jobs, careers and places of employment to where sometimes we forget that they're simply that a job. and just like you landed this job you will also be able to land another job, a new job, a better job even and that's the sweet spot to be in.

Being fired during the holidays is undoubtedly challenging, but it can also be a turning point in your career. By embracing the emotions, reflecting on your goals, and staying positive and persistent, you can land your next opportunity with optimism and confidence. Remember, every ending is a new beginning.