“I heard the news today …”

... From Biz2Biz NWA June/July 2009

By Carla Sloan/ Intentional Transitions / Rogers

Job change news doesn’t have to be job change blues. In the midst of tumultuous change there are three basic questions we want answers to.
• How will I, and those who depend on me, survive?
• Why did this happen to me?
• What do I become?

Here are 10 tips to make the most of not-so-good news.

For your financial well being:
• Take advantage of financial wellness workshops. Track all expenses so you can make informed decisions about expenses.
• Write down everything you spend and look for ways to slow your out-going cash flow.
• Check expenses associated with what you use to do and trim as needed. Saturday’s golf game may no longer be a prudent expense. You can still get exercise with a walk in the park.

Getting Closure:
• Find the closure you need to move forward. There may be no obvious answer, and if you find yourself circling the question, seek an objective third party or professional for help.
• Put aside your anger or resentment and focus on what would increase your marketability for the immediate future. Do you need to improve your skills, add training or education?
• Take stock of your work-related relationships. If they are important to you and your family, find ways to continue them. Your friendship doesn’t have to suffer because you no longer share office space.

What now?
• Sometimes being let go is an answer to a prayer. Use the opportunity to look for a new door to open. Be energized by possibilities so you can deal head-on with reality.
• Identify what you are good at, what you enjoy, and possibilities that would bring in necessary income. Look for a niche you can fill and profit from.
• Recognize when it is time to exercise self-care. Relax with a book or take a scenic float down river. Remember to value yourself.
• Be the best person you can be. Focus on the stewardship of your resources, time, relationships, and finances. Volunteer to help others in your community. Look for ways to give and serve rather than take. Remember that what defines American spirit is not how much we earn or spend, but our willingness to help others less fortunate.

Author/ expert Carla Sloan is a life coach and founder of Intentional Transitions. She works with individuals to help them gain clarity, actions, attitudes and expectations. For information email Carla at carla@intentionaltransitions.net.