Another round of layoffs just happened. The good news? You still have your job. But instead of feeling relieved, you feel… guilty. It’s called survivor’s guilt, and it’s more common than you might think.
Layoffs take an emotional and mental toll, even on those who remain. You might wonder, “Why them and not me?” or feel the pressure to work even harder, fearing that the next wave might take you out too. These feelings can spiral into unhealthy patterns that make work even harder to manage.
Common Symptoms
1. Feeling Like You Took Someone’s Job
You know it’s not your fault, but it still feels like your employment came at the expense of a colleague’s. You might think, Why them and not me? or Did I do something wrong by staying?
2. Overloaded with Work But Afraid to Say No
With fewer employees, all the work needs to go somewhere—and often, that means you. You might feel guilty pushing back, believing that taking on more proves your worth and keeps you safe from the next round of cuts.
3. Restless and Unable to Relax
You can’t stop working—whether it’s taking on extra tasks or constantly learning new skills, hoping it will make you more indispensable. You feel the pressure to always be productive, fearing that slowing down could put you at risk in the next wave of layoffs. Even when you have time to rest, you struggle to actually relax.
The Consequences of Ignoring This
If you let these patterns go unchecked, you’ll head straight for burnout—exhaustion and mental fatigue that make it even harder to perform well and feel satisfied at work. Burnout doesn’t just affect your job—it seeps into your personal life, making it harder to enjoy time with loved ones, focus on what truly matters, and even maintain your health.
What You Can Do
1. Refocus on What You Want in Your Career
Especially when things are uncertain, knowing what you really want in your career and using it as an anchor is more important than ever. Rather than aimlessly adding skills out of fear, focus on skills that will get you closer to your goal. That way, if you get off track, you can quickly course correct.
2. Set Boundaries and Protect Your Energy
Yes, you may need to take on more in the short term, but overworking yourself isn’t sustainable. Consider the long-term impact and set boundaries that protect your time and mental health. Take intentional breaks, create the work-life balance you need, and learn to say no when necessary.
It might feel impossible to set boundaries right now, but it’s a learnable skill, and yes, it’s really possible. I know because I’ve helped so many people do it—and thrive.
3. Shift from Guilt to Purpose
Some of my friends who were laid off told me they wanted to leave their jobs but stayed for the high pay. Now, they’re traveling the world or finally pursuing careers they’ve long desired. We all get what’s best out of a given situation—so how will you use this situation for yourself?
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
When you hear these suggestions, you might think, “I know I should do this, but it’s hard. I don’t think I can.” The truth is, these are all learnable skills—and you can do it. I know because I’ve helped many people break free from these patterns and create careers that truly work for them.
If setting boundaries feels impossible or you think your situation is different, let’s talk. You don’t have to figure this out alone. Let’s chat about what’s possible for you.
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