Annually, at least half a million people are laid off, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics www.bls.gov . Unemployment is a traumatic life changing event that is near the top of the stress list. Oddly enough, studies show that even confident and accepting folks generally need to take a step back and go through the grief process, in order to move ahead.

Many times people are unable to talk even with close friends or family members about their feelings of anger and frustration. But opening up to folks in a similar circumstance or who have had the same type of experience removes the feeling of isolation. The grief process of moving from worry, shock, relief, denial, anger, release, sadness, loss, acceptance and finally action is like being on an emotional roller coaster. Blaming doesn’t fix anything. If you are the kind of person who needs to feel sorry, set aside a small amount of time each day for it. Take time out to brood and then get back to the really important things in life. Eventually, the time for action will come and you will be ready to move ahead.

Recreating your career could be one of the best things that ever happened to you. What do you really want? What do you really need? Create your personal mission and vision statement. What are your talents? Make a self discovery journey and determine what you need to do to get there. Begin building a personal action plan based on your values, skills and interest. Be realistic, if you need additional career planning, training or education, accept it. Check your local colleges, technical or vocational schools and the One Stop Employment Center for these services.

Take the challenge! This may be an opportunity to create a new life, the one you only thought about before.