From Laid Off to Lifted Up

Written By Cynthia Kleinbaum

Let's be honest, losing a job is a punch to the gut. It shakes your confidence, your routine, even your sense of identity.

But here’s the truth: you lost a job, not your value. And you are not alone:

✓ 40% of workers will be laid off at some point in their careers (Harvard Business Review). 

✓ 60% of people who lost jobs landed better-paying roles within a year (Indeed).

So… how do you make this your ultimate comeback moment? Here’s a 5-step mental reset to help you stop spiraling — and start rising:

Reframe: You’re not a failure, you’re in a pivot

Being laid off can feel like a personal failure, but it’s not. It’s often just business. The key is to shift your mindset: this is a pivot, not an ending. 

Many of the most successful careers are built on moments like this—where reinvention becomes the launchpad for greater impact.

Try saying this out loud (yes, seriously):

“I’m now exploring opportunities where I can make a bigger impact.”

Reflect: What do you actually want now?

When you’re constantly in motion, it’s easy to lose track of what actually lights you up. This pause—while uncomfortable—is also a gift. 

Use it to get radically honest about what you want and need in your next role. Your next move doesn’t have to be a continuation of the last—it can be a reset aligned with your values.

Ask yourself:

→ What parts of my last job gave me energy?

→ What drained me?

→ What would my dream Monday morning look like?

Reconnect: Don’t hide — network

The temptation to go quiet after a layoff is real—but this is the exact time to reach out. Most new roles come from connections, not cold applications. Focus on your “weak ties”—people you haven’t talked to in a while but who may open the right door. You're not asking for favors; you're building momentum.

Message 3 of them today using this script: 

“Hey [Name], I’m currently exploring new opportunities in [industry]. I’d love to catch up and hear what you’re working on!”


Rebuild: You are your best investment

Confidence grows when you see yourself making progress. Now’s the time to invest in your growth—not just for your resume, but to remind yourself of what you’re capable of. Every skill you sharpen is a brick in the foundation of your next chapter.

Try one of these:

→ Take a course

→ Earn a certification

→ Start a project

→ Volunteer in your field

Retell the story: Be proud of your pivot

The words you use to talk about your layoff shape how others perceive it—and how you feel about it. The truth? 

Layoffs are common, and your ability to navigate one with clarity and confidence is a strength, not a scar. When you own your narrative, people listen differently.

When someone asks about it — whether in an interview or on LinkedIn — try this: “After my role was restructured, I’ve been focused on finding a team where I can bring even more value and purpose to my work.”


This moment doesn’t define you. But how you rise from it? That just might.


We believe in you. We’ve been there. And we know what it’s like to start over — with shaky hands and a strong heart.

Con cariño,

Claudia & Cynthia

Founders of A LA LATINA


PS: We created a free guide just for you! Inside you'll find: 

✓ How to talk about your layoff with confidence
✓ A checklist for finances, resume & mental health
✓ Interview tips that actually make a difference
✓ A printable weekly worksheet to track your progress

🔗 10 THINGS TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR JOB – A COMEBACK GUIDE

Here are sources of the data we referenced:

Cynthia Kleinbaum
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The power of weak ties