It starts as a whisper.

A shift in leadership.

A calendar full of back-to-back meetings.

A company-wide email that just feels… off.

And then comes the thought:

What if I’m next?

If you’re in a season of workplace uncertainty – whether there are confirmed layoffs on the horizon or just a quiet sense that things are changing, know this: what you’re feeling is normal.

Uncertainty at work can bring up anxiety, fear, grief, and a deep sense of powerlessness.

Especially if you’ve already experienced a job loss before, these moments can feel triggering and emotionally intense.

As a career coach in Colorado, I work with clients who are navigating not just job transitions but the complex emotions that come with them. This month, I want to talk about anticipatory grief and the quiet stress of waiting for the next shoe to drop.

Let’s explore what this season can bring – and how to care for yourself in the midst of it.

What Is Anticipatory Grief?

We often associate grief with loss after it happens, but anticipatory grief is the emotional weight of sensing a loss before it occurs. It’s common in caregiving or medical settings, but it absolutely applies to work as well.

You might be experiencing anticipatory grief if:

• You’re constantly refreshing your inbox, dreading bad news
• You feel emotionally drained or “on edge” at work
• You’ve lost your usual motivation, even though your job is technically still intact
• You’re bracing for something without knowing exactly what’s coming

This state can feel exhausting – especially when you still have to show up, attend meetings, and perform as though nothing is wrong.

The Emotional Toll of “Still Being There”

If you’ve watched coworkers get laid off, or even if you’re just hearing whispers of restructuring, you may feel what’s often called survivor’s guilt or workplace limbo.

Maybe you’re still employed… but:

• Your workload has doubled because your team was cut
• You’re doing tasks outside your skill set with no support
• You feel invisible or stuck, unsure whether to stay or start looking
• You’re afraid to make a move, but you know something has to change

This emotional rollercoaster deserves to be acknowledged. You don’t have to minimize your experience just because you still have a job. In many ways, this uncertain middle space is just as challenging.

So What Can You Do When Everything Feels Uncertain?

When you’re in a space of not-knowing, your nervous system is often on high alert. That’s why it can feel so hard to concentrate, make decisions, or plan your next move.

Here are a few gentle practices that can help:

1. Acknowledge what’s real.

You don’t need to gaslight yourself into positivity. If you’re feeling anxious, sad, or unmotivated – it’s okay. These emotions are signals, not failures.

2. Create micro-moments of control.

Even small actions can help restore a sense of agency.

This might look like updating your resume, reaching out to a colleague, or journaling about what you want in your next chapter.

3. Name your values.

What’s most important to you right now? (Stability? Creativity? Impact?)

In seasons of instability, your values can act as a compass, helping you make decisions that align with who you are and where you’re going.

4. Don’t isolate.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Whether you confide in a trusted friend, a mentor, or a career coach, a connection can bring perspective and remind you of your strength.

If You’re Still in Limbo, You’re Not Alone

One of the hardest parts of job insecurity is the waiting. Waiting for news.

Waiting to feel safe.

Waiting to know what to do next.

If that’s where you are today, I want to offer this:

• You don’t have to wait for the perfect moment to take care of yourself.
• You don’t have to stay stuck in a place that’s draining you.
• You’re allowed to want more clarity, more support, and more alignment in your work.

And when you’re ready to explore that next step, I’m here.

Looking for a supportive space to talk it through?

As a career coach who specializes in transition, identity loss, and grief, I help people navigate these tender seasons with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

If you’re ready to feel more grounded – even in the unknown – you can book a complimentary session with me.

You don’t have to figure it all out today.

But you can begin.