Suppose you're reading the news and feeling concerned about your job security. In that case, you're not alone, as it's been another brutal week in multiple industries where numerous well-known companies and media outlets have announced continuous job cuts.
A recent MyPerfectResume survey of nearly 2,000 people found that 85% of Americans are worried about losing their jobs in 2024.
According to Christopher Hansen, a licensed professional counselor with Thriveworks in Texas, the ultimate course of action is facing your emotions, noting that the anxiety experienced by those who survive mass layoffs can be almost as intense as the anxiety felt by those who lose their jobs because "they're stuck in purgatory, wondering if they're next on the chopping block."
Dealing with ambiguous and uncertain threats can be challenging. However, according to Hansen, there's a straightforward strategy to cope with it, and the best part is that it takes less than five minutes.
Stop Negative Thoughts from Spiraling
The constant fear of losing one's job leads many people into a harmful cycle of negative thoughts, which Hansen calls "stinking thinking," which involves continuously worrying about the worst-case scenario.
To halt negative thoughts about job loss, jot them down. Record your location and activities when you feel anxious, as this can assist in recognizing triggers and understanding your beliefs about the situation.
If you think negatively, like worrying about losing your job and being unable to afford rent after a staff reduction meeting, try replacing those thoughts with positive, realistic affirmations by reminding yourself that just because your colleagues were let go doesn't necessarily mean you'll lose your job tomorrow. Concentrating on the present can help you feel more in control of the situation and grounded.
Recruiters and HR experts suggest practical steps to prepare for a possible layoff. Update your resume, create job alerts on job search websites, and seek guidance from mentors or other professional contacts to feel more prepared.
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Shift your attention to hobbies, relationships, and interests that bring you joy outside work. According to Hansen, even discovering a new TV show to be excited about can be a potent remedy for layoff anxiety.
That stress can impact your personal life and relationships, making it hard to enjoy other things. However, it's essential to remember that we are complete individuals beyond our work hours.
Other Ways to Divert Your Anxiety
- Positive Affirmations: Swap out negative ideas with positive ones to overcome anxieties and increase confidence.
- Ground Yourself in the Present: To regain control, focus on the present moment to identify and challenge irrational thoughts.
- Hobbies and Interests: To unwind and find joy, pursue your hobbies and interests outside of work.
- Practical Preparation: To prepare for a possible layoff, take manageable actions like updating your resume, putting up job alerts, and getting advice.
- Relaxation Techniques: To reduce stress and foster tranquility, use relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
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