We Got Let Go, and We're Embracing It – This Is How to Find a New Role That Fits for You

The beginning of a new year can be a moment for introspection, and for a lot of us, that encompasses evaluating our work lives.

Two publishing professionals who lost their positions following company reorganizations originally thought it was a disaster.

"I invested my heart into that role... I believed in the values we promoted. Yet, when it came to me, those values didn't apply," a former editor remarks.

They both opted to employ the word "dismissed" and argue that being transparent about it can help you handle the experience.

"We use so many euphemisms for losing a job. But the faster you own it, the quicker you're honest about it, the sooner you can move on.

"That is the direct path to what you want to pursue next," she notes.

Today, they are succeeding in different roles, where one running her own firm and the other holding the position of lead editor for a luxury magazine.

Whether you've been made redundant or are contemplating a change, these are four methods that can help.

1. Reflect On Last Year

It's typical to experience a bit low about work post-festive period.

A professional advisor stresses the value of reflection before starting a new job search.

She advises professionals to evaluate what they wish to do more of, what to reduce, and what motivates or depletes their energy.

Looking back at your accomplishments to identify common themes is useful too. "Try to avoid focusing solely on the last month, because we all suffer from for recency bias that can impede clear thinking," she adds.

She also notes it is vital to decide what place your job fits in your life.

This requires being truthful about how much time you're working and its impact on your social life.

After her own experience, she suggests preventing your life be shaped solely by your job.

2. Make Gradual Moves

The advisor states that individuals can implement incremental moves for a career transition without diving in headfirst.

Her own journey took seven years to transition from a traditional job to operating a company entirely, working on her project while still employed, which enabled self-funding from the start.

"It required more time, but that was the method I used sustainably," she explains.

She recommends a test-run method.

This might involve volunteering, participating in an initiative that captures your interest, or saying yes to a different task in your existing role.

"If it fails, you discover it's not a fit, but it's preferable to learn now than after you've committed fully," she states.

She also encourages exploring temporary "stepping-stone" positions. They are perhaps not the perfect role, yet they function as progress forward, such as a role with similarities to your desired career, but in a different area.

"It's about granting yourself the space to say this works for now, however, that is not the same as forever.

"That represents a clever strategy for getting closer to your desired transition."

3. Remember Your Achievements

For anyone who has just left your role, many are in the same boat – layoff figures have increased significantly in recent times.

A former editor held a senior role at a style magazine, but a few years ago she lost their jobs following a decision to ceased print operations.

Recognizing that this was not a reflection of her ability helped her process the change.

"Your experience remains with you simply due to were dismissed.

"Do not surrender your confidence, it's important for everyone to remember their own value."

Another professional was let go after a decade at a financial magazine due to leadership changes in management and the hiring of new leadership.

She notes that so much of the embarrassment associated with being fired is internal.

"With many professionals losing jobs, it's rarely personal. It's probably not about you, so don't carry that burden of shame unnecessarily."

4. Build a Career Checklist

For those who are urgently looking for a new job or feel profoundly unhappy in your current role, it can be tempting to dive straight into applying at any opportunity – disregarding personal fulfillment.

Yet, this can be a significant mistake.

Alternatively, she proposes a method called "scanning" – narrowing your search to only job descriptions that seem appealing.

She recommends searching sites like LinkedIn and saving around 10 to 15 that you like.

"Look for {the words|the