People are increasingly confronted with job loss; lifelong employment has become rare. The Flexbarometer¹ tracks data from CBS and TNO on the number of people working in the Netherlands, categorized by contract type. It shows that the number of flexible contracts has risen by 60% over the past 12 years. And the expectation is that, in the coming years, the number of flexible contracts will only continue to grow in comparison to permanent contracts.

It could happen to you too—you might lose your job. How would you handle it? Do you feel angry or sad? Do you take the time to say goodbye? Or do you see it as a new opportunity?

I once went to a job interview for a position as a reintegration consultant. I was asked why I had left my previous employer. After the recruiter pressed me a bit further, the tears came. My contract hadn’t been renewed after two years, and it was clear I hadn’t fully processed it yet.

Looking back, I realize I should have given myself more time to come to terms with losing my job. Instead, I jumped straight into applying for new positions.

In this article, you’ll find ways to approach things differently than I did—five ways to truly reflect on the loss of your job.

1. Say a physical goodbye

Many people I coach tell me they never really said goodbye at work. Some, for example, became ill and never returned to the workplace. When your job comes to an end, it’s worthwhile to make time for a proper, physical farewell.

Do this in a way that suits you and your employer—whether it’s a big send-off or a quiet moment with just the colleagues you felt close to. It can also help to return to your old workplace one last time. One of my coachees, for instance, sat at her desk one final time and took in the space around her. That moment of reflection allowed her to truly say goodbye.

2. Write a farewell letter

Many of my coachees still carry a lot of sadness and anger about their dismissal. It’s difficult—where can they turn with these intense emotions, aside from me? Family and friends often grow tired of hearing these “stories.” That’s why I often suggest writing a farewell letter to their former employer. The letter isn’t meant to be sent, but it gives them a space to express everything they need to say and release those feelings onto paper.

Writing such a letter can be a huge relief in a situation like that.

3. Create a farewell ritual

Coming up with and carrying out a farewell ritual can be incredibly helpful. If you’ve written a farewell letter, for example, you might choose to burn it. One of my coachees is currently shredding old work files together with a friend. It’s practical—it clears space—and at the same time, it’s part of her process of saying goodbye.

4. Write your life story

An assignment that’s often part of the process at Dynamisch Bureau is writing your life story. This goes beyond just reflecting on your career, it offers insight into the choices you’ve made, recurring themes in your life, and your unique talents.

5. Take your time (for relaxation)

“When you’re doing well, your career will follow,” is something I often say to the people I coach. That’s the foundation for taking your next step in work. Take your time. Identify what gives you energy and what drains it and choose the energy boosters as much as possible!

Wishing you the best as you take time to say goodbye. With these tips, you’re sure to manage it well!

¹ Look at http://www.flexbarometer.nl