Rising from the ashes!

The concept of "rising from the ashes" is beautifully illustrated by the imagery of Fawkes, Professor Dumbledore’s phoenix in the Harry Potter series. This magical bird, bursting into flames and crumbling into ashes only to be reborn even stronger and more magnificent, serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience. In real life, when facing the upheaval of a restructuring process, this imagery reminds us that although we may feel diminished, we possess the ability to regenerate and rise again, emerging more capable and renewed from the challenges we endure.

A restructure can be defined as “the act of reorganizing ownership, operations, or other company structures to improve profitability or better align with current needs.” The economic climate in New Zealand has been challenging post-COVID, with a delayed recession impacting multiple industries. A simple walk down Queen Street in the city centre, lined with numerous “for rent” signs in shop windows, highlights the depth of this economic strain. Conversations often reveal that almost everyone has either faced a restructure themselves or knows someone affected by one. Amid this upheaval, it’s crucial to understand that restructures, though difficult, are a strategic business decision and not personal. The hardest part is acknowledging the human impact—where those involved become the collateral damage of necessary change.

Instead of focusing on the "why" behind a restructure, I want to emphasize how to rise from the ashes and thrive afterward. The most challenging aspect of being made redundant—something I know firsthand—is finding the strength to rebuild, trust in your abilities, and believe in your skills and knowledge to navigate forward. I firmly believe in the power of positive energy and the universe's response to it. When you project positivity and resilience, you invite the same energy back into your life, setting the stage for renewed opportunities and growth.

Here are practical steps for navigating and recovering from redundancy:

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions: Allow yourself the time to process and grieve—it’s similar to experiencing a loss. Face it head-on and engage with your emotions.
2. Lean on Your Support Network: Utilize family, friends, trusted colleagues, and resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). Don’t hesitate to seek support—discussing your situation can ease the burden.
3. Engage in Personal Coping Mechanisms: Everyone has different methods for coping. What worked for me included reading self-help books, listening to podcasts, talking openly with my partner, sharing with my broader circle of friends and family, seeking mentorship, and dedicating time to exercise, meditation, and self-care for both mental and physical well-being.
4. Consistency and Flexibility: Strive for consistent self-care but allow yourself space for deviations and moments of grief. Remember, “it’s okay not to be okay”—healing takes time.
5. Recognize Your Worth: Over time, you’ll realize your inherent value, skills, knowledge, and unique attributes. Trust that these qualities set you apart and will guide you toward new opportunities.
6. Prepare for the Next Steps: Once you achieve mental clarity, you’ll be ready to take practical steps toward securing a new role.
7. Understand That Healing Is a journey: The process takes time but know that no one can take away your intrinsic qualities. Finding and embracing your purpose will help you move forward and thrive again.

I hope these practical tips, drawn from real-life experiences, guide and inspire you on your path to greatness and self-discovery. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Just like a Phoenix, you have the strength to rise from the ashes, face any challenge, and emerge stronger to conquer whatever life may bring.

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PS – I do offer Career Coaching sessions, DM me if you want to chat one-on-one.

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By – Marlini