Survivor Guilt

When uncertainty hits the marketplace and organizations are forced to lay off employees, there’s an under-discussed byproduct of the upheaval–namely, survivor guilt. How do those who keep their jobs cope with losing friends and colleagues to layoffs?

In this episode, Daniel and Peter offer six clear steps to help layoff survivors deal with the shock, grief, and upheaval presented by keeping their jobs when others lose theirs.

Tune in to learn:

• The one small change you should make to your language that brings big results
• How to gain control in the aftermath of huge organizational changes
• Why it’s more important than ever to focus on wellbeing

“You are not alone,” says Daniel. “Try to not pretend like everything is normal. It’s not!”

Layoffs are not easy for anyone, including survivors. Be patient, give yourself some grace, and employ these tools to help get yourself back on stable footing.

Questions, comments, or topic ideas? Drop us an e-mail at [e-mail].

In this episode:

1:54 – Memory Lane: The Simulation

6:24 – Topic: Survivor Guilt

7:49 – What is Survivor Guilt?

12:18 – Step #1: Acknowledge Your Feelings

16:15 – Step #2: Communicate Openly

20:19 – Step #3: Focus on Your Role

23:50 – Step #4: Support Your Colleagues

29:15 – Step #5: Focus on Self-Care

33:32 – Step #6: Reflect on What’s Important

36:34 – Lightning Round

Resources:

What is Workplace Survival Syndrome–and How to Cope (Indeed)

Stewart Leadership Insights and Resources:

5 Ways to Help Manage Your Team’s Change Exhaustion

Leading Through Change: How to Future-Proof Your Team

We Are What We Think: 4 Steps to Change Our Personal Stories

4 Truths About Being a Compassionate Leader

The 4 Steps for Managing Constant Change in the Workplace

9 Practices to Boost Your Longevity–and Your Leadership Abilities

Your Brain at Work: Four Strategies to Maximize Your Most Powerful Asset

5 Ways to Encourage a Strong Sense of Wellbeing on Your Team

5 Ways Leaders Can Better Manage Feeling Overwhelmed

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