Are You Facing an Involuntary Job Change?

Many of the people that I have talked to recently who are facing or are in the midst of an involuntary job change admit that they have mixed emotions about their situation. On the one hand, they often have disliked their work for a while, but just stayed with it. On the other hand, they are also very scared because of what the transition means. For many people, a job change is a significant event and even when the original job was no longer a satisfying one, it can still be a hard change to cope with.

If you are making an involuntary job change, there are a few things I would encourage you to keep in mind. The first is that such a forced change can cause an unexpected emotional upheaval or roller coaster. Just the uncertainty of what will come often brings an unsettled feeling. Beyond the obvious financial concerns, a significant aspect of our sense of self may be shaken. You may wonder - 'Who am I if I am not doing ______ work?' 'How do I greet people who ask, "What do you do?" or 'Who will hire me at this age?' These can be very challenging questions to consider.

I would encourage you to remember there are other questions you can consider in these circumstances. For example, 'What can I do now that I have this opportunity to redirect my life?' or 'What did I want to do when I was younger that I haven't done?' or 'What dreams have emerged at this stage of my life?' Although these can also be 'scary' questions, they can lead to more productive thinking. Involuntary, and voluntary, job losses can be complicated transitions to cope with and many people need external supports to assist them in working through the transition. There is no shame in seeking the help you need.

Mary Ann Davis, M.A. is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in private practice providing career coaching and counseling for life's transitions. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor (MCC) by the National Career Development Association; recognized as a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is certified as a Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC). Check out her web site at http://www.YourCareerPlan.com.
To contact Ms. Davis, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential voice message or send an email message to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.