As a therapist who works with leaders—and yes, that means you, because whether or not you identify as one, we’re all leaders in our own lives—I’m here to help you reclaim your power.
When we don’t step into that leadership role, our subconscious beliefs end up running the show, often steering us toward fear, doubt, or stagnation. My goal is to help you flip the script, find growth in the chaos, and cultivate faith from within. So, whether you’re dealing with a layoff, a breakup, or just a tough season, let’s explore how these challenges can spark your next chapter of transformation.
Let’s start with one of life’s most jarring transitions: layoffs.
Layoffs don’t just affect your finances—they rattle your identity, relationships, and sense of stability. Whether you’re the one receiving the news or making the hard calls as a leader, layoffs have a way of shaking even the steadiest of us. But as devastating as they can feel, they don’t define you. They’re a moment—a painful one, yes—but also an opportunity to realign, grow, and reclaim your power.
Rooting Leadership in Authenticity
I come to this conversation with 18 years of leadership and mental health research, rooted in personal and professional experience. Raised by parents who embodied ambition and innovation, I witnessed firsthand how integrity and drive can coexist. My siblings excelled as corporate leaders, and I carved my own path with a degree in leadership and clinical practice.
What I’ve learned is this: leadership doesn’t always look like being the loudest in the room or the one holding the title. Leadership is about stepping into your power, living in alignment with your values, and holding onto your authenticity even when the system tests you. Whether in the workplace or at home, leadership is a practice, not a position, and that practice begins within.
So how do you navigate layoffs with grace and resilience? Here’s how to flip the script:
1. Show Up with Integrity
Your actions during difficult moments define how you’ll remember yourself. Stay aligned with your values, whether that’s kindness, professionalism, or honesty. Integrity is what helps you stay grounded, even in uncertainty.
Actionable Step: Reflect on what integrity means to you in this moment. Is it offering support to a colleague? Staying professional despite anger or fear? Decide how you want to show up, and let that guide your actions.
2. Stay Connected
It’s tempting to isolate when fear and uncertainty creep in, but connection is what keeps us afloat. Whether it’s leaning on trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends, staying connected reminds you that you’re not alone in this.
Actionable Step: Reach out to someone this week, whether it’s a mentor, a friend, or a former coworker. Not to ask for anything, but to simply connect and share.
3. Seek Clarity, Not Control
It’s easy to spiral into over-analysis when faced with the unknown. Instead of trying to control every outcome, focus on gaining clarity about your next steps. Clarity is empowering, even when the big picture remains uncertain.
Actionable Step: Write down your questions or uncertainties, and bring them to your next conversation, whether it’s with HR, a career coach, or a trusted advisor.
4. Protect Your Energy Relentlessly
Layoffs can feel like they take everything from you, which is why protecting your energy is critical. Set boundaries for what you can give emotionally, mentally, and physically.
Actionable Step: Choose one boundary to set this week, maybe it’s limiting the time you spend on job boards or saying no to conversations that drain you.
5. Be Both a Learner and a Leader
This is a time to grow and to lean into your strengths. Ask yourself: What can I learn from this experience? What skills or qualities can I rely on as I move forward? Balancing curiosity with confidence will help you rebuild.
Actionable Step: Identify one skill you want to strengthen and start exploring ways to develop it, perhaps it’s an online course, a podcast, or hands-on practice.
6. Cultivate a Purpose Bigger Than Your Job
If your identity is tied solely to your job, a layoff can feel like losing yourself. But your title doesn’t define you—your purpose does. Use this time to realign with what truly matters to you.
Actionable Step: Journal about the legacy you want to leave—what impact do you want to make, both in and outside of work? How can you take a small step toward that purpose this week?
Layoffs are undeniably hard, but they’re also a chance to press reset. They force us to confront what matters most, let go of what no longer serves us, and lean into what’s next.
As you navigate this transition, remember: you are more than your job. You are a leader in your own life, and you have the power to turn this shake-up into a breakthrough. Together, let’s embrace the discomfort, find the opportunities, and build something stronger.
Your next chapter is waiting—and I promise, it’s full of growth, clarity, and resilience. Let’s get to work.
Ready to rebuild? Let’s explore it together. Schedule a consult here.