To everyone who is losing their job during the lockdown. I'm so sorry to hear that.
It sucks.
It's wrong.
And it hurts.

THREAD on some thoughts for the way forward.

1. Allow yourself to feel angry, very angry.
2. Try not to blame yourself. This one's tough but important, for what's gonna come next. Businesses are complex and in all likelihood, you losing your job has little to do with your ability and more to do with bad cash flow management by business or company.
3. Pause. Reflect. Relax. Rehabilitate.
If you're working in media, take a breather. The news cycle is toxic even on the best days. Wean off it for a while. Read. Indulge in a hobby, sleep. SLEEP. Rest up for what's ahead. Look after your mental health and wellness. Get help.
4. You need to make a task list. Pen on paper. Or a notes app. Make a list of contacts in your sector you know personally. Reach out to them. Talk to them. Share your skills & aspirations. Ask for advice. Asking for help is a sign of strength...not weakness. Seek guidance.
5. The next thing is more long term. But this break is a good time to get started on it. DIVERSIFY your skills. Identify what skills you want to add to your professional skill set. Udemy, Coursera, Upgrad, tons of online options. Invest in online courses. Learn new skills.
6. If you have relevant experience in your field, no matter how limited. From 1 year to 10 years or anything else, make yourself available for mentoring and coaching. India desperately needs good mentors for the students coming out of university. Make yourself available.
7. Helping others is the best way to find joy and happiness. You may or may not get paid for this. Do it anyway. It's also incredible for your personal and professional growth. Share your knowledge.
8. When you find yourself ridden of guilt, shame, anger, helplessness think about what you'd like to do next. I understand I'm speaking from a place of incredible privilege and some of you may not have the luxury to sit and contemplate life. You've got bills to pay & expenses.
9. Your ex team, ex boss, ex colleagues. Reach out to all of them. Refresh and redesign that CV. Make it better. Lots of sectors and companies are hiring. See if you can make a career shift. See if you can shift cities. It's difficult but consider it. You'll get used to it.
Stay strong. Stay healthy. Stay safe. Stay inspired. And it's also completely fine if you just want to hibernate and isolate yourself. Monitor your social media diet. Look after your mental and physical health. Ping me if you'd like to talk. I'm here.
You can follow @ankitv.
Tip: mention @twtextapp on a Twitter thread with the keyword “unroll” to get a link to it.

Latest Threads Unrolled: