Coping with Redundancy: Finding Your Feet Again
Redundancy can feel like the rug has been pulled from under you. Even when we know it isn’t personal, it can still feel deeply personal. Our work often becomes entwined with our sense of identity, purpose and routine, so when it’s suddenly taken away, it’s not just a job that’s lost, but a part of how we see ourselves in the world.
It’s completely normal to experience a mixture of shock, anger, sadness, or even relief. Many people move through these emotions in waves, and each one deserves space. The first step is to allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling, without judgement. Trying to skip straight to “being positive” can often mean brushing over the real loss that’s taken place.
Understanding the Emotional Impact
In counselling, we often talk about transitions, those moments where life shifts suddenly, leaving us unsure of where we stand. Redundancy is one of those transitions. It can stir up old fears about security, worth, and belonging. You might find yourself replaying events, wondering what you could have done differently. But it’s important to remember: redundancy says far more about circumstance than it does about capability.
You are still the same person with the same strengths, skills, and value, even if, for a while, it doesn’t feel that way.
Rebuilding a Sense of Control
When we lose something as big as our job, it can help to re-introduce small pockets of control into our days. That might mean creating a gentle morning routine, taking a daily walk, or setting aside time to update your CV. These small actions begin to rebuild a sense of agency, the feeling that life isn’t simply happening to you, but that you’re still steering the ship, even through rough waters.
Another helpful approach is to look for meaning. Sometimes redundancy acts as an unexpected pause, a moment to reflect on whether the path you were on still fits who you are now. For some, it becomes the beginning of a new chapter that aligns more closely with their values or passions. For others, it’s a time to rest and recover before stepping forward again with renewed energy. Both are perfectly okay.
Seeking Support
It’s easy to withdraw when you’re feeling low, but staying connected is vital. Speak to people you trust about what’s happened, not just about the practicalities, but about how you’re feeling. Often, just being heard can help lighten the weight you’re carrying.
If the uncertainty or sadness feels overwhelming, talking to a counsellor can offer a safe and steady space to process what’s going on. Together, you can explore not only the practical next steps, but also how to rebuild confidence, rediscover direction, and gently nurture hope again.
Moving Forward
Redundancy might close one door, but it doesn’t close your story. Over time, most people find that they emerge from this experience with a clearer sense of what truly matters, a deeper understanding of themselves and a renewed belief in what they can offer.
If you’re navigating redundancy right now and finding it hard to regain your footing, please know that support is available. Talking it through, gently, honestly, and at your own pace, can make all the difference.
You don’t have to go through this alone. If you’d like to take the first step towards feeling more grounded and hopeful again, you’re very welcome to reach out and book a session. Together, we can help you find your feet, and your confidence, again.
