A reader asks: My company is laying off some of my co-workers. What if I lose my job?

A reader e-mailed me to ask a question about layoff changes going on where he works. He asked:

“My company is laying off some of my co-workers. What if I lose my job? Im really scared.”

Last week I blogged about ‘survival mode’. For most people, their survival needs such as food, and shelter depend on their income. If your income (or job) is threatened in any way it can cause you to go into a fear and anxiety mode.

• When you feel this anxiety or fear, it is a signal to tell you that you must first find a solution to your problems of lack.


• Then you must calm yourself and focus on creating more prosperity in your life.

If you let fear overcome you, you will find it difficult or impossible to think clearly about your situation and to take action to correct it.

So what should this reader do?

1. Realize that you have not been laid off yet, although co-workers have. Take this as extra time to find a new source of income. Don’t leave your job, but perhaps find a part-time job that you can work along with your current job. This will do two things. It will ‘get your foot in the door’ at another company where you may have an opportunity for a full-time position if you get laid off. Also, it will give you some extra income to put away in case of an emergency.
   


2. Take an hour or two to look at your budget. See how much money it actually takes to support you and your family for a month. Then put money aside until you have enough money to pay the basic, mandatory bills including food for one year. Once you have put aside this ‘padding’, you will be able to relax more. You will be less likely to go into fear and panic mode if you do get laid off because you will know that you can support yourself for at least a year … and longer if you are able to collect unemployment.
   



3. Learn to calm your mind. You will be able to act on your goals better and you will exude more confidence when interviewing for jobs.
   




Start now, even if you still have a good job. Reduce your discretionary spending and know exactly what it takes for you to survive financial each and every month. Put aside whatever you can afford to so that you have peace in your mind and confidence. Enjoy life … don’t fear it.




Geri