Losing a job is never easy – whether you are a high-earning CEO or a fast food worker. These days, it seems like workers are more in danger of losing their jobs than ever before. Recent studies show that most occupations today have numerous activities that could be fully automated. Issues with the economy are causing many of America’s biggest companies to conduct mass layoffs, with over 100,000 tech workers fired within the first few months of 2023 alone. 

If you are trying to recover from being fired, you are not alone. Many Americans are dealing with the exact same issue as you read this article. The real question is what you choose to do about it. As you will soon find out, there are many ways to handle losing a job. 

Your termination does not necessarily need to be a bad thing. In fact, it might be exactly what you need. Try to view this as an opportunity to start fresh. It is not the end – it is the beginning of a new chapter in your life. While starting anew can certainly feel daunting, it can also be very exciting if you stay optimistic. Who knows what you will accomplish in the future? The good news is that the US labor market is quite strong these days, with millions of job openings ready to be filled. 

It is also worth taking a moment to consider wrongful termination. Many of these cases go completely unreported – often because workers are not aware of their rights. Think about whether you might have been fired for something you could not control – such as your age, your gender, your sexual orientation, or your culture. You can also be wrongfully terminated for reporting misconduct – such as harassment or outright illegal activities. Speak with a wrongful termination lawyer for more guidance on this matter. 

One of the best things about searching for a job in the modern world is that you do not need to limit yourself to your local area. The rise of the virtual home office has made it possible to work for companies across the entire globe. Widen your search, and you might find incredible opportunities waiting for you across both state and national borders. 

Why not take a break after being fired to think things through? Often, it takes a few days to really take stock of what has happened. Consider getting compensation from EI while you consider your next steps. If you resist the urge to rush back into the labor market, you might think of an amazing idea. 

If you are feeling bitter about the circumstances in which you were laid off, you might have the opportunity to push back. By exposing your employer’s misconduct or illegal activities, you can have the last word. Whistleblower protection laws prevent your employer from retaliating against you in any way. Telling the public about your company’s misconduct can protect consumers from dangerous products and other hazards. Some might even argue that it is your responsibility to go public. Speak with a lawyer if you wish to move forward in this manner. 

It is always important to prioritize your mental health after being fired – especially if you are feeling hopeless about the future. There is no shame in getting therapy – and it might provide you with some much-needed optimism. If you are not into the idea of speaking with a psychologist, you can always talk about your feelings with friends or family. Sometimes, getting feelings off your chest can help you move on. 

Networking is one of the best ways to jump back into the job market. When you are not working full-time, you suddenly have an opportunity to attend events, get back in touch with old colleagues, and meet fellow professionals for coffee. These connections can be much more valuable than you realize, and they can land you positions even better than your prior job. 

If you have received a severance package, it can be tempting to spend it all quickly and ease your woes with self-care. But before you blow your money on ice cream and vacations, you might want to consider investing it instead. While there is always an element of risk when it comes to investing, this simple decision can provide you with a safety net that grows in value. Who knows? Investing your severance package might provide you with the opportunity to retire early in a few years’ time. 

You do not need to cut ties with your former colleagues just because you have been fired. In fact, it is usually a good idea to keep in touch. If your company is conducting mass layoffs, there is a good chance that your former peers will lose their jobs at some point as well. Together, you can search for jobs and find new opportunities with greater ease. Many groups of fired employees go on to start their own companies – becoming more successful despite their terminations. 

If you are close enough to retirement age, you might also consider calling it quits – permanently. Take the time to plan for the future and make sure you actually have enough savings to retire comfortably. If the numbers add up, then why not hang up your work boots? During retirement, you can remain busy with other pastimes, such as hobbies and family events. You can also continue to invest your money to ensure a solid emergency fund. 

If you think you may have been wrongfully terminated from your position, you may be correct. The only way to know for sure is to get in touch with a qualified, experienced wrongful termination lawyer in Los Angeles. Reach out to Fraigun Law today to discuss your situation, take legal action, and pursue the compensation you need.