Discussing Life Changes
Uncertain futures
You just got word. The company is downsizing and you’re on the list.
Aside from the frustration that comes with losing your job, the pressure that comes from knowing you still have responsibilities to attend to is profound. And while you think you’ll be able to figure everything out on your own, the people in your life deserve to know what’s happening and that some major changes may be on the way.
Sometimes people aren’t good with change, especially if they feel it dumped on them. When employment is threatened, questions pop up automatically. What do I do now? Will I find another job? How long will it take? Is there enough money to carry us until then? What are my options? And you aren’t the only one with questions. Those close to you may feel their own security and comfort threatened. They may be upset like you are, but they may be able to help.
The key is, in a situation as stressful as losing your job or a substantial change in position, the key is to step up and start the discussion on what happened and how to move forward.
Before you start talking, understand that:
- Losing your job doesn’t make you a failure.
- This is the end of one thing, but the beginning of another.
- You can find a new job, with meaning and satisfaction.
- You need to keep positive and work toward forging a new future for yourself and your family.
When it comes time to talk, think about ways to make the best of an unfortunate situation:
- Be open and honest. Tell what happened to you and why. Blame rarely gets you anywhere or makes you feel better, so stick to the facts.
- Be real about your situation. Talk about what this change means to you and your family right now. Don’t sugarcoat things and tell everyone that everything is all right and that you have everything under control. While that may be the case, the reality is, it might take time to find new work and that will require adjustments for everyone in the family. Conversely, don’t overstate the situation either. You don’t want to create panic and more stress than necessary.
- Make a plan. Once you’ve outlined the situation, tell them what your plan is. How you intend to find new work, the steps you’ll be taking and your timeline for success. Things may not go exactly how you had planned them, but knowing how you intend to move forward will give you a goal and give some peace of mind to your family.
- Follow through on your plan.
- Ask for support. This is a hard thing to do. You shouldn’t have to go it alone. Ask those close to you for their help and understanding. That’s what families are for.
If you lose your job and your day-to-day routine is disrupted and your future seems in peril, it’s best to get your situation out in the open and move forward together.
This article is provided for general, informational purposes only and is not intended as advice specific to your situation.
