How to Survive Swimming in Strange Water

As a follow-up to Alexandra Franzen’s guest post, Will You Mow the Lawn to Follow Your Dream, today’s post highlights Alexandra’s book, You’re Going to Survive.  As someone who survived three job layoffs, I know how it feels to have to restart your career.  Whether you know your next move or you feel like you’re swimming in strange water, I am a living witness that you can make it.  Please feel free to share your survival story in the comments.    

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You’re Going To Make It

The loss of a job feels a lot like swimming in the ocean.

When you first hear, “We’ve decided to let you go,” you feel a cold sensation wash over you.  After the words sink in,  you drift towards emotions like disappointment, frustration, rejection, anger, and maybe, fear.

Looking back,  you never saw a layoff in your future.  You never dreamed you would have to swim in the strange water of unemployment.

But you don’t have to drown.

During my swim, I found lots of lifebuoys to help me survive.  I prayed, talked to friends, and read lots of books.  One book I would recommend, which I recently read, is Alexandra Franzen’s, You’re Going to Survive. 

Throughout the book’s 306 pages, Alexandra encourages the reader to move forward no matter what happens.  Throughout seven chapters, Alexandra covers disappointment, bad reviews, bullies, doubt, and rejection.  As she explores each area, she assures the reader that not only are their feelings normal but that everyone goes through the same experiences at some point in their life.

My favorite quote:

No matter what’s happening in your career right now, and no matter what happens next, you’re going to make it through this day. 

Yes!  I love this. I cannot tell you how many times I told myself this over the past three years.

If you are facing unemployment or dealing with other life challenges, I recommend Alexandra’s book, You’re Going to Survive.

Survival in Strange Water

“Survival is the ability to swim in strange water.”  from Frank Herbert’s Dune

While reading, You’re Going to Survive, I remembered my layoff in 2017.

When I got laid off, I decided immediately that I was not only going to survive but that I would also thrive. I set up a website, started a blog, volunteered in my community, and published my first book, Time to Refresh.

Before doing anything, I went to the beach for the weekend to map out a plan.  Part of the plan includes the following seven steps below.

Accept the news immediately.

Unless another job is available in your company, accept the news quickly, and take the following action:

• Process your feelings about the news.
• Review or make a budget.
• Talk to trusted friends or counselors provided by your employer.
• Talk to your manager about your assignments leading up to your last day at work.

Make a personal peace plan.

Use journaling to write about:

• What makes you angry about being laid off?
• The reasons you are happy to leave your job?
• What will you do every day when your job ends?
• Identify the key things you want your next job to include.
• How will you ensure peace in your life during this time?

Create a journey map

As the author of your story, write the next chapter of your life.  A journey map is a visual tool used to accomplish a goal.  Whether your next target is a new job or a new business, a journey map allows you to list the steps you will take to reach your desired goal.

Research new ideas

Examine your journey map and list any items that require research.  Explore new courses, seminars, or workshops offering the information you need to reach your goal.  Set up interviews with people already on the path you want to take.

Set a regular schedule

Once your job ends, determine what you will focus on during the day.  Brush your teeth, comb your hair, and wear real clothes every day.  Resist the temptation to stay in your pajamas or workout clothes all day.  Plan to meet people and network.

Get moving

Make sure your daily schedule includes movement.  Whether it’s a yoga class at your local gym, a trip to the dog park, or a daily walk around your neighborhood, make plans to get out of the house each day.

Find peace through faith and prayer.

Relying on faith and prayer can bring comfort during challenging times.  For me, this meant attending church regularly, personal and corporate prayer, and Bible study. Find the peace you need to help you survive.

At the end of her book, Alexandra reminds us that we are built to handle all of the challenges we face in life.  She writes:

“You’re made of carbon, just like the stars in the galaxy, and oxygen, hydrogen, and sodium, just like the oceans, and you’re just as powerful.”

If there was ever any doubt in your mind, know this:  You’re going to survive!