We experience grief for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, we go through grief after the loss of a loved one, friend, or even a pet. Grief is the emotional response to loss or a big change in someone’s life.

This can also include grieving over quitting a job. We know that is surprising to hear. After all, if a person decides to quit their job, then there shouldn’t really be anything to be sad over, right? Actually…no. Even when someone makes an informed decision about their job, it can still feel like they are in mourning.

It is completely understandable that you might be grieving over quitting your job. Here’s why.

Grief And Job Change

It’s A Big Transition

Maybe you decided you couldn’t take one more day at your job. Or, you may have known the day was coming, and you chose to put your two weeks’ notice in. In either case, it’s a lot. It’s a huge life change when you are used to going to the same place every single day. Then suddenly, one day, you aren’t.

Humans aren’t always the best at adapting to change, even when it’s something that we willingly choose to do.

The Future Is Scary

Life, in general, always has a lot of uncertainty that comes with it. No matter why you quit your job, it can be downright terrifying. You knew what to expect in terms of your finances and what your everyday job duties would be like. With a job change, a lot of that isn’t guaranteed. Not knowing what the future holds when you could rely on certain aspects of a job is anxiety-inducing for anyone.

Our Jobs Can Become Our Identity

Many of us are tied to our jobs in such a way that it becomes part of our identity. And that’s no fault of our own! If you think about it, what is one of the first questions you ask someone when meeting them for the first time? Is it “What do you do for a living?” Our jobs, in some cases, define who we are and give other people an indication of the lifestyle that we live.

This is especially hard for those who were let go from their jobs suddenly. When asked about their job, it can be really hard to say that they aren’t working right now and they are just in between jobs right now. This inevitably leads to more questions and likely answers you don’t want to talk about.

How To Cope With Grief After Quitting Your Job

You quit your job, and now you are browsing the internet, trying to find inspiration to get yourself out of this rut, in between looking for a new job, of course. Grieving after quitting your job is completely normal. And, even though it’s normal, it doesn’t make it easy to deal with. You can definitely find ways to cope with it to make this transition period easier.

First, remember that your identity does not start and end with what your career is. While society gives that impression, it isn’t actually the case. You are still your own person with your own autonomy and someone who has interests and hobbies.

Second, view this period as the perfect time to decompress and reflect on your past job experience. What lessons did the old job give you, both good and bad? Do you want to work in a similar field again, or are you ready to follow that dream of starting a new career?

Job loss can be really scary and challenging. But through grief counseling or anxiety treatment, I can help you put this chapter behind you and help you to feel more prepared for the new one. Don’t hesitate to reach out when you are ready.