I have constant anxiety over being laid off or fired. To the point that I’m starting to feel paranoid, reading into everything around me. I need some tips on how to deal with this as it’s crushing me.

likehelpful
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at
Highlighted IconHIGHLIGHTED

I find the best way to deal is to face this anxiety head on. Put together a list of actionable items that if you were laid off/fired you would need to do. If there are any you can do now, do them (like update your book, reach out to contacts, save some money). I would also back up you work from your computer. Make things like this a common practice that way of the day comes where this happens (and in our industry it likely will) that way you will be a little prepared for when/if this time comes.

likehelpfulsmart

What AS said but also, go to the dentist, the doctor, eye doctor. Make sure all that is up to date use your benefits. If you don’t have cash saved, think about stopping 401k and put into an emergency fund.

Talk to your spouse or a friend, family member. Don’t bottle your fear.

Whatever your craft or your art, pour yourself into it. Think about your old dreams and aspirations. Think about how you may actually be free to pursue them. And you can do that whether you stay or go.

likehelpfuluplifting
Recent IconRecent

I’ve been laid off three times in my life and didnt die. Keep it all in perspective and always be ready to walk out the door. Don’t get too comfortable at any one company. They are not family — they are not your home — even if they may feel like it.

likeuplifting

It’s how they get you accept longer hours at less pay.

like

Smoke some weed.

Or just take a nap.

Better yet, cuddle a puppy to death.

likesmartfunny

I often like to check the accuracy of my thoughts (a trick I learned from CBT). For example, when you read into something and draw a conclusion from it (e.g., so and so said this, so I must be getting fired), take a moment to ask yourself if that is really the most plausible conclusion. Like if a friend told you that story, would you conclude that (s)he was getting fired? This often helps me reframe my thoughts so that they’re more accurate

I totally agree with the others in terms of always being prepared, but I know from my own experience that anxiety often leads to thought distortions, so I wanted to add the above. Good luck, OP!

likehelpful

I understand. I’ve been laid off three times. Was laid off once then went to a startup that didn’t last a year and was out again. This has stayed with me ever since. Kind of like the bad relationship that makes you wonder if your current significant other is cheating just like your ex did. While this often comes to mind when there is drama at work, I can’t let it run my life. Those experience do cause some anxiety when there is restructuring and client losses but I remind myself that while being laid off sucks I did get through it, I did find a job and arguably I’m much better off at my current job than the sinking ships that let me go. I also took control of my career more after the layoffs. I make sure that I have enough money in savings just in case. I’ve also made sure to keep up my networking relationships and keep in touch with my favorite recruiters. Maybe it’s weird but I also do my best to help people I know who get laid off to find a job. Maybe I’m hoping it will give me karma points if I get hit again.

likesmart

Talk to a doctor. I had the same thing for the first 10 yrs of my career. Constantly nervous that I wasn’t good enough. Always nervous I was going to get fired. Mind you, this was completely unfounded, my coworkers and clients liked me, I’d never had a poor performance review, etc.

Ended up talking to my doctor. And got on a low dosage of anti-anxiety meds. The apprehension is almost completely gone, I don’t fight with my wife about petty things, and I stopped thinking I had AIDs every time I got a cold

likeuplifting

Sure thing. Zoloft, can’t remember the dosage size. Been on it for four years. Life changing

like

This is just what advertising feels like. You just deal with it. If you get laid off youll find another job, until that one lays you off. The industry sucks, creativity is being devalued every day, its stressful and we all just deal with it. Its not crushing you, youll be fine.

like

It’s just a job. You can always get another one

likehelpful

YEA!

Check in with your supervisor to make sure things are going well if you haven’t recently? I was talking to someone who passed along an unexpected compliment from my CCO and it helped me feel more confident in my work.

like

Well, it’s weird industry. I was laid off 2 years ago. I started freelancing since then and it’s been great, making more money than when I was full time. But every time I try to get back to an agency it looks like there are no positions, only on the pharma side. Maaybe in the future we’ll be all freelancers? More like the production industry?

likehelpful

There are things in life that you can control and there are things you can’t. Focus on the things you can control and let go of the anxiety that comes from worrying about things you have absolutely no control over. Work hard and do your job the best you can and just know that when layoffs happen they’re not decided based on merit. They’re always just about the dollars.

like

Oh dude, I’m sorry. Unless you have VP in your title, you’re bound to lose your job at some point. I e resolved myself to it and it’s made the world of difference. That and Xanax and Zoloft.

like

Assuming you’re prepared (see advice above), then you’ve got to stop worrying. Otherwise it can become a self fulfilling prophecy. If you don’t have faith in your abilities and it shows,
why should others have faith in you?

like

If you are doing your best you are powerless over the rest. What I do to bolster my confidence and prepare for if what I’ve sensed is accurate is update my resume, LinkedIn, portfolio and start online job search just to see what’s out there. It takes my mind off of the insanity I manifest in my head.

likesmart

Laid off 5 times in my career and I have had that little voice sitting on my shoulder for years, but I actually see it as a blessing. Each time it’s happened it’s pushed me to work harder and I’ve ended up in a better place. Just remember that lay offs happen and see it as a clean slate to start fresh.... and when the voices get too loud, Cbd is amazing! :)

like

In no particular order, here is a list of possible things you could do from a person who also feels like this all the time! “Do as I say, not as a I do...”:
See a therapist who has experience with career guidance and counseling
Speak to CLOSE friends and colleagues about it
Make a list about all of the great things you offer at work
Go back and take a look at past, positive reviews
Update your resume
Take a vacation/few days off for mental health
Smoke some weed
Think about what else you’d like to do/could do
Interview elsewhere
Put things in perspective

like

Ok. Real talk. And I’ve been there before so please know this is coming from experience and from a place of love and understanding. If you are feeling this way, something has changed there to make you think you’re on the chopping block. Not saying it’s gonna happen but trust your gut. I knew it was happening to me a few months in advance just from little cues but I didn’t know for sure so I waited to see. And yes, it happened, I got “laid off”. Put your book together this weekend. It’s the same as dating someone and suddenly feeling like you need to look through their phone. You wouldn’t normally be so paranoid but something is off and you HAVE to know. They are probably making a case for you to exit. Get ahead of the curve.

like

Ehh, I see your point, but I think the imposter syndrome thing is so common that we can’t always act on these assumptions.

like

CBD

like

Quit and take a break dude

like

Related Posts

Hi all,

Seeing some posts on layoffs in barclays. Is it true and which category of Employees will fall in that list.

like

Hey Accenture Team!
I’m a L9 consultant based out of San Francisco, California who was impacted by recent lay off at Accenture. I wanted to understand as per WARN Act California employees are to be given at least 60 days notice, however I was only given 3 weeks notice. Can I challenge this?

like

Did Epsilon just go through a round of layoffs ?

We’re in such a vicious business. You give your heart & soul to an agency, a client, a brand. Then the wind changes & you’re laid off, reassigned, chewed up, spit out, on to the next. I’m tired.

like

Hi Fishes,

Need advice,

I recently got laid off by PS and my notice period just got over,

I have offers from:

PineLabs,

HealthKart,

Recro,

Rojo Consultancy

All are offering almost same ctc around 19-22 LPA,

I have 3 years of experience as a backend developer,

working on Spring Boot, REST API, Java 8.

Any help is really appreciated,

Thanks in Advance 😅



like

How is the job security at Delta Air Lines ?
Do they layoff frequently?

HR had mentioned there were no layoffs at tech during the pandemic.

like

Fishes need ur help...my friend s been laid off without notice...any quality analyst jobs please let me know....would be really grateful 2 u all...

Hi does schneider Electric layoff people.. How is job security?

like

I am seeking new employment, I was recently laid off due to lack of work. I would very much appreciate any leads. I have a Bs in Construction Management and over 15 years experience with Revit and AutoCAD and 7 years of plumbing design. I have solid references and impeccable work ethic. I truly enjoy what I do. Working remotely the last three years has become a way of my life and supports our current situation well, therefore I am seeking a similar role but will consider other opportunities.

like

Has anyone been able to negotiate anything extra or terms when being laid off?

like

Did someone get fired in the new manager training in Orlando after getting drunk?

like

How is it that every company complains they can’t find workers yet 9/10 posts on linked in the last few weeks are all about layoffs? And just taking a look at the jobs in your are…why does every job suck and want to pay you 45k?

like

How much severance package Credit Suisse is giving on layoffs?

Are they laying off new joiners too? Where is more impact EON 1 or EON 2 in Pune office?

Credit Suisse

likesmart

PROPOSAL: Can we start naming names with respects to layoffs, furloughs, and pay cuts? Knowledge is power, and the only ones who benefit from vague exchanges of info. are the employers. Thank you!

likehelpful

Was laid off in Sept. Unfortunately we will be seeing many more coming. It's what happens in a recession. Unfortunately I now also have my age against me. Not in a mentally good place at the moment.

I’m quitting my job tomorrow morning. I don’t have a new job lined up. I’m scared, but also excited? I’ve felt under utilized for months, and haven’t had a promotion after two years. I never take risks like this, but life is too short. Is this a bad choice?

likeupliftingsmarthelpful

Dad got laid off. Drinking got worse. Attempted assault on sis and mom. Had to put up in hotel. No clue on next steps (legal and personal). Project is complete shit show and SM is not getting it. Idk man...

like

Hot take: if it’s actually a stealth layoff then everyone else got the same speech as you and outing the firm won’t identify you.

like

Blue shield of CA fired 375 people. Any other insurance companies having massive layoffs?

like

Is there a risk of accepting a role with Upstart currently? I seen a 7% layoff recently for hourly employees but I would be salaried. I am well aware it’s a risk in tech overall right now but curious on thoughts thanks!

likeuplifting

More Posts

Finally found THE one, after over a year of searching and trying out at least 5 different ones!

A nice comfortable office chair.

https://ergochair.co/collections/chairs/products/ergonomics-mesh-chair-w-adjustable-headrest-and-armrest?variant=32511617597491

My criteria: mesh seat and back, arms, headrest

I tried cheap ones from Amazon. Expensive, second hand gaming chairs. Tried HM Aeron (second hand) and while I didn't like the bulk and the general design, I was sold on the mesh seating. I wanted to get the ErgoChair 2 from autonomous, but it doesn't have mesh seat.

AMA.

likefunnyuplifting

11/7 Check In 🙌 Happy Monday! What’s everyone up to today?

likeuplifting

This is how I feel!!!

Post Photo

I have 6 YOE and experience in Java, Spring Boot. What is the average salary for my YOE and tech stack in mastercard India?

like

What should be expected compensation in MasterCard for Senior BizOps Engineer in ITIL/ITSM team.

YOE : 7 year 6 Months
Current CTC : 21 LPA + 20% variable on top of ctc

like

Hi Fishes,
Please suggest on which is better in terms of what?
Barclays vs Mastercard

Tech: java, spring
YOE: 3

like

I am having around 11 YoE in SAP and expecting an offer from PwC SDC. Few queries:

1. What is the designation I should negotiate for in PwC considering 11 YoE in SAP.

2. My current CTC is 23 LPA. How much hike should I ask for?

like

How many days does Michelin usually take to release offer letter? I had salary discussion with HR on May 13th, 2022.

like

How long it take for L1 round in Capgemini.

like
likehelpful

Any book recommendations? Preferably shorter < 300

like

Not trying to troll per se - but if you quit you job can you still file for unemployment? Are there restrictions?

like

Hey! Are there any art directors willing to chat over zoom? I’m a recent grad and I need some advice about jump starting !

like

Do you buy insurance when travelling to US for fun? Moved to Europe recently and this will be my first time back in US without employer health insurance - should I buy travel insurance? Where from? Thanks!

like

Which agencies are going through layoffs

like

Is the CPA designation worth it? For me it would take me 1 year of PREP courses and 2 years of PEP until i can write the CFE. And I am 27 years old right now. Also wondering if it would be crazy to pursue the CPA while learning how to code to be a developer as well?

like

Fishers, any tip to apply and ace for a role that you have zero experience? I have more than 10 years of experience as EA and want to move to OM/admin manager role however most companies only hire those with minimal 3-5 years of experiences.

like

Looking for ergonomic office chair recommendations, budget is $500. Any suggestions?

like

Additional Posts in Advertising

Creative teams, any good tricks to keeping a brainstorm on track when your new partner talks so much that it's almost painful? More specifically, they talk the most, but say the least?

like

I just got into reading books, any suggestions to start with? Which could help to increase media/marketing knowledge.

like

Has anyone been able to negotiate anything extra or terms when being laid off?

like

Creatives who left for tech. What is it exactly that you do now? Is it still writing or art directing? Or a different creative role? Hearing about people leaving for tech so I want to know what it means exactly aside from the benefits.

like

Can we please be done with vertical video? It’s completely opposite the human field of view, looks horrible, no camera other than a cell phone shoots it. Seriously dreading IGTV.

like

Food/bar recos in CHS?

like

Daniel Brian Advertising makes employers donate a $1 every time they wear shorts to the office...but apparently it’s only enforced on female employees.

DBC - what do you have to say for yourselves???

like

Shoutout to the recruiter who ghosted on a meeting they setup! Gotta love the professionalism 👏

likefunny

Any senior art directors at NY agencies looking for a new partner? Pref someone at BBDO, DDB, TBWA, Droga, Wk, Mother, T+S.

funny

Just had someone in NYC I want to work for ask me my salary. It's illegal now but I didn't know how to tell them. I told them my range. What would you have said?

like

I'm extremely happy working at Havas, so it pains to me say what the leadership has done is both embarrassing and demoralizing. (cont.)…

likeupliftingsmarthelpful

Anyone else feel like avoiding all these spots before the super bowl is an extreme sport? Maybe it’s just me, but I want to see them at game time... reading ahead takes all the fun out of it for me.

like

This showed up on my Facebook feed. Is it because I put the blackout square (I didn’t use that incorrect hashtag, by the way).

Post Photo
likefunny

Most won't give a shit but what work do you think will win this year at Cannes?

like

Shoutout to account peeps ready to explain why, actually, it isn't that much work and, actually, EOD tomorrow is plenty of time.

like

When my non advertising friends complain about their 50 hour work weeks

Post Photo
likefunny

How do you know if that phone interview went well?

like

Modern problems require modern solutions.

Post Photo
likefunny

IHOB? Droga just ripped off a 10 year old Pizza Hut ad. Pasta Hut—coming soon!

likefunny

Which agencies are going through layoffs

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal