How to Deal With the Emotions of Getting Fired

Think of being fired as the chance to explore a new chapter in your life.

Getting fired from a job is devastating to many people. According to a study published in 2009 in the journal "Demography," people who have been fired are at risk of developing negative health problems. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that you take care of yourself after being fired. There are ways for you to deal with the conflicting emotions that may arise after such an unfortunate event.

Instructions

1. Write down your feelings about being fired. Get a journal and write in it every day. Express your feelings over losing your job. Putting your feelings on paper helps you to release the many negative emotions that are churning inside you.

2. Speak to friends and family members. It's likely that many of them have been fired, as well, and they may be able to share some good advice with you on dealing with the hurt that comes with being fired.

3. Don't feel ashamed about being fired. It's OK to admit that you are devastated. Remember that the firing does not reflect on your worth as a person.

4. Explore the positive effects of the firing. For instance, you now have a chance to finish work around the house or to start a new exercise regimen. Go away for a night or two, if possible. Maybe you didn't have time to enjoy life before. Now that you have more time, spend it with friends and family. You never know how busy you will be when you get a new job. Take advantage of your free time so that you have no regrets later.

5. Make a plan for your future. Think about what you want to do professionally. You may have been very unhappy in your job, and now you have an opportunity to do something more to your liking. Update your resume, and speak to your work contacts. Apply to jobs in your area of expertise.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice what you will say at job interviews. Don't mention you were fired at the beginning of an interview. Wait until the potential employer seems interested by stating that he wants to check your references. At this point, you should mention that you were fired. Never badmouth your former employer. Don't go into detail when you talk about the firing. State that you regret that things didn't work out with the company, but you are ready to move on.

References

• Rodale.com; How to Recover from Job Loss; Emily Main; March 2010
• Psychology Today; Fired to Write; August 2004
• AOL Jobs; Three Ways to Emotionally Recover After Being Fired; Christine Rochelle; April 2010
• Job Journal; Getting Past the Sting and Stigma of Being Fired; Julia Hollister; May 2002
• Marie Claire; Getting Fired: What No One Tells You; Annemarie Dooling; October 2009