The Confidence Toll of Job Loss is Real

It has been quite some time since the subject of career has been discussed in this blog, dating back to recent examples of having started new opportunities as discussed in posts here, here and here again. Since that last post in 2019, I have separated from two positions while experiencing periods of being without work that have lasted for months. As you can expect, these periods have not been particularly pleasant, either internally or interpersonally with folks that care.

Know that I have been looking for work since my last career separation, which occurred in the middle of 2021. The beginning period following that change was difficult, with much in terms of self-reflection that involved recrimination and self-blame. Much of that blame hit the mark while not being particularly helpful in terms of wanting to jump back into another circumstance where I would repeat things that I see went wrong. Given enough time, my perspective changed into doubting that many of the positives I could offer even existed.

Some that are close or were close intellectually have understood some of the challenges that accompany periods of not working. Experiencing attempts to apply for work that you know you can do, and never getting contacted by prospective employers is part of the reality. Never progressing past a screening call in other circumstances also proves difficult. Given enough time, people that either love you or your loved ones try to pitch in with help. Know that this is appreciated.

A reality that sets in for some cases is a strong desire to protect the relationships that have been formed among you, your significant other, and your network of family, friends and colleagues. This sometimes collides with seeking help. What this can look like is not wanting to pursue careers with organizations of your network because, if you repeat the problems that you’ve have in the past, you personally worry what this will do to the professional relationships of those people. So, you double down on not seeking that help. This is a part of my journey. I still haven’t come to a place of being able to change this. Having not been on unemployment support has taken a toll on familial savings as well. So, what comes next?

The step that comes next is beginning to look like part time work. Whatever I can take is part of the deal. Continuing education sounds correct, and intellectually it is. Simply know that I continue to press forward with this next phase of my working life, with the uncertainty that it entails, know that the emotional turmoil of the circumstance is legitimate and real. If you know someone that has been out of work, by all means gently check in to see if they are well since the confidence toll of job loss is real.

Matt – Monday, February 21, 2022