Losing your job is one of the most stressful things you'll ever live through. No matter how many others have survived it and even prospered, being fired is still an awful experience. Today, too many people are interpreting a layoff by thinking "my world is ending". That idea will lead you down a dark road of depression and desperation.

I've worked with so many career counseling clients that have used their layoff as a springboard into a career change, or to secure a job that is more rewarding, more satisfying and usually more lucrative. You can come through this career transition looking at a brighter future if you follow these guidelines.

Deal with the feelings.

You're entitled to your feelings - don't ignore them - but be careful. You don't want to sabotage your future. Don't express your anger at your boss or the company. They may be in the wrong, but you have a lot more to lose than they do. Deal with your anger by complaining to a trusted friend.

You're likely to experience a complete range of feelings: fear, isolation, loss of identity, confidence, depression, and even paranoia. Don't go it alone - you need support! Seek out a friend or two who may be going through the job search process. Share strategies and support each other. You can also find a great deal of support online and in chat groups. Work on maintaining a positive mental attitude.

Exercise! Start every day with a one hour brisk walk. This will help improve your disposition.

Buy a couple of positive motivational audio programs. Listen to these often. They will keep your spirits up.

Consider your career options.

The economy still offers plenty of good job opportunities. The first step is to do some serious self-assessment and marketplace review. What you want, and the reality of what's available might not be the same. One option is to think about whether you might want to open a business and be self-employed. You could become a consultant, or start a home based business. These options take a lot of time and money, but many people are happier working for themselves and never facing a layoff again.

A new industry or a complete career change may be where you want to head.
In that case, consider what has happened to your industry. If it is in a major decline jobs will be harder to find. Maybe it is time to consider a new industry, or a complete new career.

To begin that process, jot down all the jobs you've ever dreamed of doing. What type of work are you most productive and happy performing? Make a list of all the job skills you possess. Note your strengths, volunteer work, and transferable skills that you can use in another job, such as managing others, research, project management, hiring, computer skills, etc.

Go to the library and research your interests and see how your talents line up with potential jobs you'd like to do. Review the possibilities carefully. Research your job options - what do the trade journals and newspapers say about the field or industry? Decide on no more than one or two job titles to pursue. Investigate the job skills required. If you are lacking any qualifications then work on getting that skill via classes or even volunteer work.

Use your time off wisely.

You can beef up your resume over the next several months. You could elect to learn a foreign language, or get proficient using a new software. Enhance some skills you already have. Read new books that can help you be on top of the latest business methods. Go to professional conferences or meetings to enhance your knowledge. Take some college classes to learn new skills or finish a college degree. A great alternative is to get the credentials and training needed for a new career. Some laid-off workers qualify for government paid tuition, so contact the unemployment office or the college's admissions office to see if you can to tap into these federal retraining funds.

If you plan to make a major career change or pursue expense educational programs, then talk to a career counselor first to insure you've thought through all the factors and are making the best selection possible as you create a brighter future for yourself.

Copyright 2010 Robin Ryan. All rights reserved.