BUSINESS NEWS - In a world where job security is highly valued, losing your job can feel like the ultimate failure. When you receive that termination notice, it’s easy to feel your world crumbles around you.
While getting fired from a job you hate might initially feel like a disaster, it could in fact be the best thing that could happen personally and career-wise, a leadership expert says.
“For many, being forced out of a job has been the catalyst for discovering their true calling and achieving levels of success they never imagined,” says Moloko Chepape, Chief Operations Officer of the Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College.
“Being fired, especially from a job you despise, is often the universe telling you it’s time for a change. When you’re stuck in a job draining your energy and passion, it can be hard to muster the courage to leave on your own. However getting fired can be a powerful wake-up call, forcing you to reassess your life and career choices.”
When leaving a less than ideal job behind, instead of wallowing in despair, consider that it actually opens up various opportunities, Chepape advises. These include:
The freedom to pursue your passion:
Losing a job you hate frees you from the shackles of a role that doesn’t align with your true interests and values. It allows you to explore what you’re genuinely passionate about.
This newfound freedom often leads people to pursue paths they were too tired, or too afraid to follow while employed.
A chance to reinvent yourself:
Dismissal can be a chance to reinvent yourself professionally. It offers you the time and space to think deeply about what you want from your career and life. This period of reflection can lead to significant personal growth and the discovery of new talents and interests.
Building resilience:
Being fired is a challenging experience but also a powerful lesson in resilience. Overcoming the challenge of losing a job builds mental toughness, self-reliance, and a deeper understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. This resilience will serve you well in your future endeavours.
“It is worth keeping in mind that some of the world’s most successful people also at one stage found themselves on the receiving end of being let go. Getting fired doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road for you. It can actually lead to greater future success, as the experiences of Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and JK Rowling famously demonstrated,” Chepape says.
He says it is important, in the case of job loss, to work towards finding the right path again.
“Allow yourself time to grieve, but don’t dwell on it. It’s natural to feel upset or angry after being fired. Allow yourself a short period to process these emotions, but don’t let them consume you. Remember, this is not the end—it’s a new beginning.”
After that, it is time to reflect on what you want.
“Take some time to reflect on what you truly want out of your career. Determine what your passions and strengths are. Use this period of unemployment as an opportunity to explore different paths that align with your values and interests. It is possible that you don’t have a clue about where to even start determining what career might better align with your strengths and personality. In that case, use the free resources available to you, such as career guidance available at good public or private universities.”
While on this quest to find your new direction, it is important to stay engaged and active, and rebuild your confidence, Chepape says.
“Getting fired can affect your self-esteem. Rebuild your confidence by focusing on your achievements and skills. Take on small projects, volunteer, or freelance to remind yourself of your capabilities. At the same time, actively network and seek mentorship.
“Use this time to connect with others in your industry or the field you want to break into. Attend industry events, join online communities, and reach out to potential mentors. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable guidance.”
Chances are that the skills and qualifications you currently hold may be outdated, or not a match for the new field you want to pursue. You may therefore want to consider further education or skills development.
“This might be the perfect time to upskill or pursue further education. Whether enrolling in a short course, learning a new language, or gaining a certification, investing in yourself can make you more attractive to future employers and give you the tools to succeed in a new career.”
Once you’ve reflected and rebuilt your confidence, it’s time to take action. Start applying for jobs that genuinely interest you, or better yet, consider starting your own business or freelance career. The key is to keep moving forward.
“Being fired from a job you hate might feel like a setback, but it can be the catalyst for a brighter, more fulfilling future. It’s a chance to reassess your life, pursue your passions, and reinvent yourself. Remember, some of the most successful people in history were once in your shoes. They didn’t let a job loss define them; instead, they used it as a springboard to achieve greatness.”
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