Preparing for Career Setbacks Makes Them Less Stressful

The question of career setbacks is not one of ‘if’ but one of ‘when.’ Given any long enough career; there is no doubt that you will have to deal with speed bumps and knocks along the way.

If this is something you’ve not thought about, you’re opening yourself up to a nasty surprise down the line which will only enhance the stress you may take upon yourself.

However if you’re prepared handling your career setbacks will not only become manageable but the stress will be alleviated.

There are a few popular setbacks that you’ll most likely have and we’ve created tips for each of them so that you can understand how to overcome career setbacks.

Getting Cut Back

Sometimes, through no fault of our own or perhaps an innocuous mistake we may find ourselves cut back.

It can be heartbreaking if we really loved the job, but coping with career setbacks like this mean we can weather any storm.

So once we’ve made our peace with losing our position, the steps you should take next become key to how you’ll turn lemon into lemonade.

The first consideration you should make is to bounce back as soon as possible because it’s easy to fall into a state of depression.

Freelance, network or even volunteer, but keeping yourself busy is the key to surviving major career setbacks like this.

Another option, if you’re feeling brave is to approach a competitor; chances are your experiences at your previous position will not only have you fit in easily but you could also be a major boost for the company.

Getting Demoted

None of these circumstances are pleasant to think about, but it helps to prepare yourself for them and care for your own well-being by facing your fears.

Let’s say the setback isn’t as final as being cut back, but you’ve just been demoted; in some cases this may feel worse because you’ll likely take a kick to the salary and the ego, surrounded by colleagues who are living reminders of your previous setback.

Surviving career setbacks is all about attitude; perhaps this could be a blessing in disguise.

Your supervisor is likely upset that he had to make that happen, so chances are you can handle this career setback by renegotiating your perks such as flexi-hours or location for example; after all what do you have to lose.

Other Career Setbacks

Aside from the big two, there is other career stress that you should prepare yourself for to better recover.

 A few example include becoming stagnant in your position without hope of advancing your career, making one huge mistake albeit accidental or otherwise or you’re simply be bored.

All of these career setbacks can be handled better if you prepare for them and recognize them when they rear their ugly heads.