How to Deal with Job Loss and Thrive in the AI Era
Are you concerned about being replaced by AI soon? ChatGPT, MidJourney, and such AI tools are surging so quickly these days, of course it’s understandable to have fears of job loss or layoff. Especially in 2023, a time when major layoffs and talk of a potential recession surround us constantly, you may be feeling more and more anxious about the job market and your current employment state. It’s inevitable that the pressure of maintaining and keeping your job may feel immense.
How to deal with job loss? What to do to navigate this new era? Let’s dive in to explore hope to thrive in the AI era.
How It Feels to Lose Your Job
Losing your job is an awful experience, overall. When you hear the dreadful words leave your boss or manager’s mouth, you may feel an array of emotions overcome you. Here are some feelings you might encounter if you get laid off or fired from your current position.
Shock and Embarrassment
Some people feel completely blindsided when losing their job. This person may feel like they were a competent or even impressive worker. They think back to their time in this position and can’t pinpoint what exactly went wrong. Thoughts flood their minds like…
This shock may turn to embarrassment at the thought of others finding out. Losing a job can make someone’s insecurities and fears come to the surface. Many people deal with insecurities and even imposter syndrome.
When losing a job, the thoughts of being not good enough or a “fraud” may feel like they have been affirmed for the former-employee; this can be extremely difficult to cope with.
Anger
Someone can become very angry after being laid off or fired from their job. The fired person starts to think about how much time, effort, and sacrifice they put into this position.
The worker may feel angry at the employers, company, or themselves, or even the world during this time. They also can have annoyance that they have to go out and find another job, a process that can be extremely stressful and draining especially in our current economic climate.
Job Loss Depression & Anxiety
Overall, most people will feel scared or unsure after losing their job. There are fortunate people in this world that have the social support to lean on in times like these; Unfortunately, other people don’t have people or savings to rely on after becoming unemployed. People who live pay-check-to-to-pay-check or who don’t have supportive parents/family members to go home to may feel panicky when losing their job or only source of income. These feelings of fear can lead to hopelessness.
Consequently, job loss depression and job loss anxiety may be daunting issues. Mind Connections wants anyone with job loss depression or anxiety to know that we are here for you.
How to Deal with Job Loss and Thrive in the AI Era?
Job loss can be a stressful experience. That’s why taking care of your mental health should be one of the top priorities. Stay active, maintain a healthy diet, get adequate sleep, and consider mindfulness practices like yoga or meditation. Besides these, the following are important for you to survive and thrive:
1. Self-Compassion is Key
When losing your job, you may be extremely hard on yourself. While it can be easy to fall into these self-destructive thoughts and behaviors, Mind Connections wants to remind you of the importance of self-compassion.
It is high time that you give yourself the same kindness and care you’d give to a good friend. The ability to be kind and understanding to oneself when faced with challenges or disappointments is a key component of self-compassion. Practicing self-compassion lessens self-criticism, increases interpersonal interactions, and fosters resilience and mental wellness.
2. Accept your Emotions
The first step is to accept the situation and acknowledge the emotions that come with job loss. It’s natural to feel a range of emotions from sadness to anger. Don’t rush or push these feelings away; instead, use this time for self-reflection. Understand that the automation and the rise of AI are a part of technological evolution, not a personal failure.
3. Stop the Negative Self-Talk
Instead, encourage yourself positive affirmations like:
- I am worthy
- I am not defined by my job
- My worth is not synonymous with my career
- I tried my best and that is all that matters
Along with positive affirmations, comfort yourself with self-care practices. Do things that provide comfort like meditating, practicing mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or doing activities that bring you joy.
Overall, losing your job can be difficult; don’t make these times harder by being hard on yourself! Show yourself the love and support you deserve in this next chapter of your life.
4. Rely on Network and Support
Networking plays an essential role in today’s job market. How to network then? Networking could happen both in-person and online. Online networking could include, connect with professionals in your field, join Facebook or LinkedIn professional groups, participate in online forums, or attend virtual seminars and workshops. In general, these interactions could lead to opportunities that you might not find in traditional job postings.
During this time, reach out to loved ones for any needed support. If you feel like no one in your life understands, consider joining support groups for people in similar situations. Remember, you are not alone; so many people are going through what you are currently!
5. Invest in Continuous Learning
Being a lifelong learner could benefit you tremendously. Apparently learning more skills can improve your resilience in the job market. On the other hand, AI has reshaped the industry, that is, new job roles require different skill sets. Therefore, it is crucial to explore online courses that offer training in AI and related fields. Even if you’re not technical, learning about project management can make you an asset in tech-heavy industries. This will at least help you to be more competitive in the new job market.
6. Improve Transferable Skills
Focus on your transferable skills in your resume and during job interviews. What are transferrable skills? These are skills that can be applied across different roles and industries. Specifically, certain skills are highly valued in the AI era, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence are highly valued in the AI era.
7. Get Ready for New Opportunities
You may want to apply for new jobs again, or you may want to start your own business. Either way, getting started when you are ready. This may include, review and revamp your resume, and update your LinkedIn profile. Consider getting additional training or certificates to boost your desirability as a candidate for a potential job.
Take the time you need to move on after getting laid off or fired. Losing a job can feel overwhelming; allow time to grieve and care for yourself.
8. Seek Professional Guidance
If you’re feeling lost, consider seeking help from a career coach or counselor. They can provide guidance, help you identify your strengths and interests, and develop a plan for your career transition.
Similarly, therapy can help people find coping mechanisms to deal with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness. As mentioned before, emotions of loss, fear, and uncertainty will frequently surface after losing a job. You may express and process these feelings in a safe and supportive environment with the help of a therapist. The therapist at Mind Connections wants to help you! We also offer coaching that can help you figure out your next step in your career and life!
9. A Reminder
Oprah Winfrey lost her first job as a news anchor because people deemed her “unfit for TV.”
Following a conflict with the board of directors, Steve Jobs was sacked from Apple, the business he co-founded.
Due to his “lack of creativity,” Walt Disney got fired from the Kansas City Star Newspaper.
Even after being fired, Winfrey, Jobs, and Disney all became legends in their fields and found worldwide success past their failures. Don’t let being fired or laid off define you; you are worth so much more than a job that couldn’t appreciate your or your skillset. You have so much potential ready to give the world, don’t give up!
Content Creator, Victoria Gallo; Reviewed by Dr. June Cao