Almost everyday we hear news of people being retrenched. Even blue-chip companies like SIA seem to be affected. But how can a retrenched worker cope with his or her new situation?
Retrenched people often go through different phases. The first thing one feels is of course shock. Retrenchments are always quick and unexpected, and when it does happen to you, you may think to yourself "This can't be happening!".
You might feel that there is a stigma that will be attached to you because you were retrenched. But remember that nowadays, retrenchment is, sadly, a common exercise, and people tend to be less judgmental towards retrenched people. It is more important to get rid of your own perception that retrenchment carries a stigma.
Most retrenched people ask the question "Why me?". It is important for you not to think that there was something wrong with you. It's just that the economy is doing badly and we are all suffering. Companies are just trying to reduce costs and when the axe falls, we do not know who it will fall on.
You might then feel anger towards your former company or boss. Although it is normal to feel that way. don't let you feelings of anger cloud your mind. Don't waste time thinking about the past or about revenge. It is a waste of precious time and energy, and there is nothing you can do to change things except look forward. Focus on what you can do now. Call up people that you know ( your ex-colleagues or bosses), or go for retraining (visit www.mom.gov.sg for a list of retraining courses).
Feelings of depression and anxiety and low self-esteem can also settle in. It is normal to feel scared and worried about the future, but remember, once you reach the bottom, the only way you can go is up. And remember, even if you are not going to an office everyday and getting a salary, you still have a job : looking for a job.
Once you begin to accept the situation, you will find it easier to move on and maintain a positive attitude.
To avoid feeling depressed, settle into a routine: wake up early, have a good breakfast and read the papers. Then have a shower and get dressed, and start calling up companies or sending out resumes. You can do this for the whole day or half a day, but make sure you always have something to do. Go for a run or to the swimming pool, or join a course that will help you pick up the skills that you may be lacking.
If you aspire to be your own boss, MOM has courses that you can attend; and think about it, it's the best time for you to start your own business! You have time on your hands, a huge pool of potential employees to choose from and costs such as rent are down!
Whatever it is, no longer expect to have the same job for the rest of your life. The government keeps telling us to retrain to stay relevant. Well the government is right. The structure of the economy is changing and the worker who can learn and unlearn quickly is at the head of the race.
Money may be a worry for you right now. So plan a budget carefully and stick to it. Write it down, don't just think about it. You will see that things are quite workable once you have written it out.
The worst thing that could happen is that you'll probably need to move to your in-laws house or stay with relatives for a while and borrow some money. So don't worry unnecessarily about money.
Also communicate with your spouse and children (Yes! your children have the right to know what's going on!) so that they can understand what you are going through to avoid arguments from degenerating. What you need now is your family's support, so talk to them and express your feelings to them. Don't allow the family to break apart over this.
Coping with retrenchment is never an easy thing to do, but remember "Attitude is everything"! |
