Finding resilience through redundacy

Redundant. The word itself can feel confronting.

I have been made redundant twice. The first time, I cried in my car in the office car park. The second time, I knew it might be coming, so I was better prepared. It was still unpleasant, although it ultimately led me to change my career direction in a deeply positive way.

One of the challenges of redundancy is that, even when we are anticipating it, it can make us feel that our efforts and contribution didn’t matter- that we weren’t valued.

One of the first things you can do is remind yourself that the decision is rarely personal. Restructures, finances, changing priorities and wider economic conditions can all mean that a role no longer exists. That is not the same as your contribution having no value. This can be difficult to accept, particularly when we have a strong attachment to our workplace and the people in it.

It is also tempting to revisit the reasons for the redundancy repeatedly and become caught in rumination. Some reflection can be useful, but it helps to bring your attention back to what supports you and what remains within your control.

When a major change like this confronts us, it is a good time to strengthen the habits and practices that sustain us. Maintaining exercise, eating well, keeping some structure in your days and spending time with friends can all help you manage the stress of the transition.

It can be hard to see at the time, but redundancy can also create an unexpected opportunity. Many people I coach have wanted to change direction or prioritise other parts of their lives but have found it difficult to leave the security of an established role. Redundancy forces a pause-and that pause can open possibilities that might otherwise have remained unexplored.

In the midst of transition, taking time to step back and consider your values, priorities and what you would like from your working life can be valuable. Or perhaps what you need first is simply a well-earned break.

Redundancy may not be a change you chose. But in time, it can become the beginning of something positive and worthwhile- perhaps even a change you come to realise you needed.