Surviving to Thriving in 2025: Advice for those who’ve experienced loss
Advice for those who’ve experienced loss ❤️🩹 Use What You Have to Build Forward
Facing loss—whether it's the passing of a loved one, a job, or a relationship—can feel overwhelming. However, it can also serve as an unexpected opportunity for growth. I speak from personal experience, having gone through multiple losses in the last 18 months—from caregiving and losing family members, my job due to an acquisition (even after I was told I had nothing to worry about), and the loss of my beloved dog.
For a long time, I took a "stiff upper lip" approach, thinking I had to push through alone. I didn’t flinch when I only received 2 days for bereavement and worked countless hours with the expectation that Americans work more than our European counterparts. Little did I know, I needed to take time to grieve, reflect, and recover. Now, I’m back stronger than ever, and here's my advice to those navigating similar challenges:
1. Reflect and Take Stock: Identify What You Still Have
It’s easy to focus on what’s lost, but take a moment to reflect on what you have left. What strengths, experiences, and relationships can you tap into as you rebuild? Think of this as a personal SWOT analysis—an honest look at your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Acknowledge the resilience you’ve built through the challenges you've faced. It’s important to remember that while your past circumstances may have changed, the core of who you are remains valuable.
2. Leverage Emerging Trends: Use Tools to Your Advantage
The world is changing quickly, especially with advances in technology like AI and the widespread shift to remote work. Use these tools to your advantage. Seek out online courses, webinars, or networking groups to stay ahead of the curve. Even if you feel behind or disconnected, there are many resources available to help you adapt. These advancements can open new doors, providing flexibility and opportunities that align with your next career move. I found the LinkedIn AI certifications excellent.
3. Build Relationships and Reconnect with Your Support System
I understand the importance of relationships—both personal and professional. After a loss, it can be easy to retreat, but I urge you to reach out, or at least let others in. Take time to grieve- it's different for everyone. However, reconnecting with former colleagues, mentors, and friends makes a huge difference. Join industry groups or forums to make new connections as well. Sometimes, a conversation or a small act of kindness can lead to a new opportunity or offer you the emotional support you need to push forward.
4. Tell Your Story with Resilience and Positivity
When you're ready to reenter the job market or make a career change, tell your story with honesty and pride. Whether in your resume, LinkedIn profile, or interviews, focus on the strength you’ve gained through your experiences. Frame your challenges as moments of resilience, adaptability, and personal growth. Employers value the ability to persevere through tough times, and you can position yourself as someone who brings a unique perspective and strength to the table.
5. Create a Strategic Plan: Focus on the Future
While it's important to process your emotions and heal, it’s also critical to have a plan for moving forward. Break down your goals into small, manageable steps. Whether it's learning a new skill, expanding your network, or simply setting aside time to apply for jobs each day, progress is progress. Remember, loss is just one chapter in your story—it's not the entire narrative. Celebrate each small win to build momentum toward the bigger picture. If you’re not sure how, contact me, I’m happy to help.
6. Embrace Patience and Grace
The road to recovery and career reinvention isn’t linear, and that's okay. There were times when I felt like I wasn’t making progress fast enough, but the key is patience. Be kind to yourself, and surround yourself with people who genuinely care and want the best for you. Understand that healing and rebuilding take time, and it’s okay to take a break when you need it. With resilience, reflection, and a clear plan, you can use this chapter of loss as a foundation to create something even more fulfilling in the future.
Loss may change the course of your life, but it does not define it. Take what you’ve learned, what you still have, and the strength you've gained to propel yourself forward. With persistence, you will thrive once again.
With compassion, I wish you a thriving 2025! - Carey
