How To Bounce Back From Early Career Setbacks

Encountering setbacks and obstacles in a professional journey is common, but what matters is how you bounce back on the track. 

career setback and how to bouncing back

Career setbacks are devastating, but you are not alone. Most of us have gone through a downfall at least once in our professional journey. Take Henry Ford for example, While Ford is today known for his innovative assembly line and American-made cars, he wasn't an instant success. In fact, his early businesses failed and left him broke five times before he founded the successful Ford Motor Company. Even Bill Gates screwed up during his first business. Even the richest man alive struggles sometimes. But what matters is how you look at that situation.

Whether you've been fired, laid off, or passed over for a promotion, Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, acknowledge what happened and pull yourself together to come back with full force. Here are the essential tips to help you bounce back on track after experiencing a career setback.

setback

Image Courtesy: NBC

Don’t Let Failure Define You

Whether your manager fired you or someone stole your chance at a promotion, just don’t take it too personally. What you did or someone else did, doesn’t define who you are. People who see losing their job as a sign of inadequacy are less likely to forge ahead quickly than those who view their loss as a chance for self-awareness and building resilience. Make a list of your strengths and accomplishments to rebuild confidence. Potential employers will be impressed by the candidates who maintain a positive outlook even after a career setback.

Learn From The Experience

Gain clarity on why you lose. There’s always something that can be learned from any setback. For example, if you were passed over for a major promotion, think about what feedback is embedded behind the scenes. Maybe you are not on the perfect career track for your skill set, or perhaps you need to become stronger in a certain area.

Reach Out To Your Network

The contacts you make throughout your professional journey will prove to be invaluable in your life. In case you’ve been sacked from your job, reach out to your former boss, colleague, or outside friends for that matter. Reach out to people you know and who know your capabilities well. Sometimes word of mouth works wonders.

Don't Miss:Top High-Paying Jobs For Women In 2024

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.

HzLogo

Take charge of your wellness journey—download the HerZindagi app for daily updates on fitness, beauty, and a healthy lifestyle!

GET APP