How can I keep my head in the game during layoffs?

With the huge unemployment rate, finding a job should be easy! If its anything like it is in Wyoming, you should find one easy! Remember, going down a paygrade is better than no pay at all. :)

It's a difficult question, because most of the time it hurts, and is kind of scary. Like with breakups, it makes you question self worth, because it reflects how people judge you and find you somehow lacking to keep around. But just because one door close, doesn't mean all other doors close. It just means you've got some time to do some reorganizing over your CV/resume, accumulated skills and career directions etc. It's not the end of the road, but an opportunity to move onto somewhere you can actually grow instead.

Think of it as an opportunity to get into a new spectrum or side of employment. It could give you a chance at pursuing something you've always wanted to do, so don't be afraid to take a leap of faith.

Be honest to yourself and keep a positive attitude. It's easy to feel down and depressed, but think about the many other things you're good at and wait for those layoffs to dissipate and eventually, it'll be better before you know it!

Try the some anxiety coping tools (you can check 7cups self-help guide for anxiety), one that might be especially helpful is to list what might be causing anxiety, or frustration or fear, and then what you can do about it and what you can't. Like: cause of stress: layoffs what can't I do? [you're not in charge of choosing layoffs, or other parts of this process you have no direct control over] what can I do? [list specific things regarding your job that can make you a stronger employee, or keep your mood up - emotional health is important, so even things like taking a short break, breathing exercises, or stretching can help] Focusing on what you can control and recognizing that some things you can't can help you focus your energy on productive things rather than continuing to build up stress.

Due to the economic shift over the past 30 years which led to more job insecurity for most people, what many people do now is have a back-up plan. Maintain your LinkedIn, Monster, or similar account to get emails about job openings. Have a back-up certification or skill that will allow you to free-lance some work to make money without needing to be employed by someone full-time. Don't be afraid to start over or go into a different field - and don't think you are a failure for doing so - you are so much more than your job!

Polish your resume. Practice your interviewing skills. Hunt for jobs. Look for freelance gigs. Do FUN things once in awhile to get your head OUT of the game. Network with people. Take an online class to expand your skills. Look for another career. Help somebody else.

Stay focused on the positive things that you have in your life and remember that you have options of what to do next. Create a list of pros and cons of the possible outcomes for each scenario you anticipate.

Just get out there and take any interview that interests you. Any experience is good experience even if you don't think you have any chance of getting the job.

I'd work on picking up part time work if allowed to do so, work on a talent or hobby to fill my time, and if I'm in a position where I can better my skills, I'd take advantage of this time off to educate myself in my career field.