Job security is a thing of the past. An employer’s market, downsizing trends and a bearish economy can all combine to break the tenuous hold you have on your job. For many people, the shocking loss of their job is nothing short of a catastrophy, especially if it is their main source of livelihood. But life must go on. Here are steps you can take to overcome feelings of despair and desperation after getting the axe.

1. Allow time for mourning. Give yourself a grieving period to get over your negative emotions. Staunching the flow of anger and bitterness out of your system, for example, may cause you to badmouth your previous employer during an interview-with disastrous results.

2. Start a journal. Writing down your pain over what had happened can have a cathartic effect. Facing up to your loss is the first step toward healing and moving on.

3. Join the human race. Isolation is debilitating, more so if you are suffering from some loss. Go to a counselor, join a support group, have get-togethers with family and close friends. It’s good to know that others care.

4. Tighten your belt. On the practical side, develop an austerity plan. Cancel planned vacations, cut back on spending, budget wisely, give up most if not all your credit cards. Avoid running into debt.

5. Resist the lure of vices. Alcohol or drugs may numb your pain momentarily, but in the long term they will imprison you in your present situation. Stay healthy by exercising, eating well and getting enough sleep.

6. Look on the bright side. Only positive thinking will enable you to see what opportunities lie ahead. Let the dreadful experience make you stronger, and teach you lessons you can use in rebuilding your life.

7. Keep busy. This may also be a good time to try what you’ve been itching to do, such as take up graduate studies, start freelancing, or indulge in your hobbies and interests, which may even be your ticket to a new business.

8. Celebrate small victories. Be glad for each little step you take in the right direction-for showing up for a gathering when you would rather hide, for getting a response from the employer.

9. Be proactive. Start your job-hunting campaign rolling. Don’t hang back and wait for the employer to find you. Reach out to them. Make calls. Improve your resume. Write a thank-you note. Follow up leads.

10. Have hope and faith. Lots of people have survived the loss of their jobs and found something better. Keep your hopes up, and pray that God give you the grace to understand and accept that He knows what is best for you.

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