Life is full of twists and turns, and sometimes those changes happen in your career when you least expect them.

Losing a job, facing layoffs, or making the choice to leave a role that no longer fits can feel like chaos has taken over your professional life.

But amidst the uncertainty, there is an opportunity – a chance to reflect, regroup, and redirect your path toward something even more aligned with your values and strengths.

As a career coach, I understand how overwhelming these moments can feel, but I also know they can be transformative with the right guidance and mindset. Let’s walk through my checklist, which is designed to help you find calm in the chaos, build resilience, and take confident steps toward your next opportunity.

Step 1: Acknowledge and Process Your Emotions

First things first: allow yourself to feel. Grieving the loss of a job, colleagues, or even your daily routine is normal and valid. Bottling up emotions only adds to the stress, so give yourself the space to acknowledge what you’re feeling – whether it’s sadness, frustration, or fear.

Processing these emotions might involve journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or working with a career coach. It’s okay to take a pause and let yourself feel the weight of the moment before moving forward.

Tip: Practice self-compassion. Remind yourself that this is just one chapter in your career story, not the whole book.

Step 2: Take Stock of Your Skills and Strengths

Once you’re ready to move forward, start by reflecting on what amazing skills and strengths you have. This is a powerful exercise in reminding yourself of your value, especially when self-doubt creeps in.

One way to do this is to take the VIA Character Strengths Survey (you can access it here), which will help you uncover your top character strengths. These insights can help you align your next career move with your core values and natural talents.

Also, you can ask yourself:

• What skills have I mastered in my previous roles?
• What accomplishments am I most proud of?
• What feedback have I consistently received from colleagues or supervisors?
• What am I really good at?
• Where (or with what) was I able to help my previous team the most?

This clarity can help you craft a compelling resume and LinkedIn profile that truly reflects your unique strengths and professional value- helping to set you apart.

Step 3: Update Your Professional Presence

Now that you’ve identified your skills and strengths, it’s time to update your career assets. Your resume and LinkedIn profile should showcase not just your work history but also the impact you’ve made and the value you bring to potential employers.

• Use strong action verbs to describe your achievements.Quantify your results wherever possible (e.g., “Increased sales by 20%” or “Managed a team of 10 across three departments”).
• Highlight transferable skills that can open doors to new industries or roles.
• Tip: Think of your resume and LinkedIn as your personal brand. Make sure they tell a cohesive story about who you are and where you’re headed.

Step 4: Lean on Your Network

Your network is a powerful resource during career transitions. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and connections on LinkedIn to let them know you’re exploring new opportunities. People are often more willing to help than you think, and one conversation can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Attend networking events, both in-person and virtual, and be open to meeting new people. Building relationships during this time isn’t just about finding your next job – it’s about creating a support system that helps you feel less alone during the process.

Step 5: Prioritize Your Mental and Physical Well-Being

Job transitions can be stressful, and it’s essential to take care of yourself during this time. Make time for activities that nourish your mind and body, like exercising, meditating, or simply spending time with loved ones. Going for a simple walk can do wonders for your mental health.

Focus on maintaining a healthy routine. Structure your days with purpose – set aside time for job searching, skill-building, and self-care. Having a rhythm to your day can help you feel more grounded amidst uncertainty.

Tip: Consider journaling three things you’re grateful for every morning. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant in your life, creating a more positive mindset.

Step 6: Seek Professional Support

Navigating career transitions can feel like a lonely road, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Working with a career coach can provide clarity, guidance, and actionable strategies to help you move forward with confidence.

A coach can help you:

• Identify and align your career goals with your values.
• Develop a personalized plan for your next steps.
• Build resilience and navigate the emotional side of career changes.
• Help you see your blind spots that may be getting in the way.

You’ve Got This

While career transitions can feel like a storm, they also offer the potential for a fresh star – a chance to realign your professional life with your purpose and passion.

If you’re ready to take the next step and want personalized support, I’m here to help. Book a complimentary coaching session today, and let’s create a roadmap for your next chapter.

Remember, chaos is temporary, but your potential is limitless. Let’s turn this moment into an opportunity to create a career and life you truly love.

Book a Complimentary Coaching Session today!