The Workplace in Transition
Gerald Lewis, Ph.D.

It goes without saying (but it must be said nonetheless), re-organizations are extremely stressful event for all involved. Certainly, for the employees who may be “let go” there can be far reaching financial and emotional reactions for them as well as their family members. For those who remain, (labeled “survivor victims” by David Noer in his book Healing The Wounds) there is often survivor-guilt accompanied by increased work demand, organizational confusion and personal anxiety. Unfortunately, administrative personnel are often seen as uncaring and unconcerned, yet for them the experience of being a “hatchet man/woman” is daunting. Political acrimony and personal bitterness may intensify. All in all it is usually a dramatic event for individuals at every level… as well as the total organization. It is like the break up of a family and, unfortunately, there is no truly ‘kind and gentle’ way to go through the process.

Nothing can “fix” this kind of a transition in one’s life. However, there are some strategies that may help mitigate the impact of going through this type of experience.

1. Recognize that you (as well as your family) are under stress and may tend to overreact to “normal” family issues.
2. Seek out support from others (colleagues, family, clergy, medical, EAP, alternative health, out placement services, etc).
3. Try to maintain regular activity and physical exercise. Something as simple as a 20-30 minute walk helps relieve some of the stress. Yoga and meditation are also of value for many individuals.
4.  Be aware of your “bitter meter.” Ventilation of frustration is helpful… try not to get stuck in anger and bitterness.
5. Be careful about “bad habits.” Stressful times tend to exacerbate our tendency to drink, smoke, eat, gamble, etc. It is also a time when one may be vulnerable to relapse.
6. Be sure to have some “fun” activities such as social events, movies, etc.
7.  Read motivational books and articles. There are a lot of them at bookstores and on line.
8. Perhaps, try a new hobby or take a new course.
9. For those being laid off, set up a schedule and routine. Your new job is… looking for a new job. Network with other professionals in order to discover possible opportunities.
10. For those who will remain with the “new” organization, try not to get stuck in the “how-things-were” mode. Give yourself at least 6 to 12 months to go through the adjustment. Try to practice the Four Ls: Live life, learn, laugh, and love.

The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts… The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past…We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing that we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude… I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you… we are in charge of our attitudes. 

Taken from: Attitude by Charles Swindoll