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The beginning of a new year is often a period for contemplation, and for many, that includes considering our work lives.

Two editors who were made redundant from their positions following company reorganizations initially felt it was catastrophic.

"I invested my heart into the job... I had faith in the principles we championed. However, regarding my situation, those values were absent," she states.

The two opted to employ the word "fired" and argue that being open about what happened can assist you handle the experience.

"People rely on countless euphemisms for losing a job. However, the quicker you acknowledge it, the sooner you're honest about it, the sooner you can progress.

"That is the direct path to what you want to pursue next," she notes.

Today, they are thriving in different roles, with one leading her own firm and the other serving as editor-in-chief for a high-end journal.

If you've lost your job or are simply contemplating a change, here are four strategies to assist you.

1. Contemplate The Past Year

It's natural to experience some apprehension concerning your career following time off.

A professional advisor highlights the necessity of introspection before starting a new job search.

She encourages professionals to evaluate what they wish to increase, what they want less of, and what motivates or depletes their drive.

Examining your achievements to identify common themes is also beneficial. "Avoid just looking at the recent past, as people often have a tendency for recency bias that can hinder clear thinking," she adds.

She also says it is vital to determine the role of work fits in your life.

This means being truthful about the amount of time you spend working and its effect on your personal and family life.

Following her job loss, she advises against letting your identity be shaped solely by your job.

2. Take Gradual Moves

The advisor says people can implement small steps for a career transition without committing fully.

She herself required a long period to make the jump from a traditional job to operating a company full-time, building her idea while still employed, which meant financial stability.

"It required a bit longer, however, that was how I did it in a sustainable way," she comments.

She advocates for a test-run approach.

This can include pro bono work, getting involved in an initiative that captures your interest, or saying yes to a new challenge within your current team.

"If it fails, you find out you don't like, but it's preferable to find out now than after you've committed fully," she adds.

She also encourages exploring interim roles. These might not be the perfect role, but they serve as progress towards your goal, like a job with similarities to the career you want, though not in the exact area.

"It involves giving yourself the permission to say this is good for now, but that isn't permanent.

"That represents a very smart approach for getting much closer to your desired transition."

3. Recall Your Accomplishments

Should you have recently lost your position, you aren't alone – redundancy rates have risen significantly lately.

One professional was editor-in-chief at a style magazine, but in 2022 she were laid off following a decision to ceased print operations.

Recognizing that this did not reflect of her ability allowed her to cope with the situation.

"What you've learned doesn't go away because you were let go.

"Don't give up your confidence, it's important for everyone to recall their intrinsic value."

Another professional lost her job after ten years with a finance publication following a regime change at the top and the hiring of a new editor.

She notes that a lot of the shame of job loss is in your head.

"With many people being laid off, it's not personal. Chances are not about you, so avoid carrying that burden of shame around with you."

4. Develop a Job Search List

For those who are actively hunting for a new job or feel deeply dissatisfied with your present job, the temptation is to jump at for any vacancy – disregarding what suits you.

Yet, this can be a major error.

Rather, she recommends a technique known as "browsing" – focusing your search on role profiles that seem appealing.

She suggests searching sites like LinkedIn and gathering around 10 to 15 that appeal to you.

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