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A new year's onset can be a time for reflection, and for many, that encompasses considering our career trajectories.

A pair of editors who left their positions following company reorganizations at first believed it was a disaster.

"I poured my heart into that role... I trusted in the principles we stood for. Yet, when it came to me, that ethos weren't there," one of them says.

The two chose to use the term "fired" and argue that being transparent about the situation can help you handle the experience.

"There are countless euphemisms for being dismissed. But the faster you accept it, the faster you're truthful regarding it, the faster you can progress.

"That is the direct path to what you want next," she notes.

Now, they are excelling in new positions, with one leading her own media company and the other serving as editor-in-chief for a luxury magazine.

For those who have been laid off or are just considering a shift, here are four approaches to assist you.

1. Contemplate The Previous Year

It's typical to experience some unease regarding your job post-festive period.

A careers coach emphasizes the necessity of looking back prior to launching the search for a new role.

She suggests individuals to think about what they want to pursue more, what they want less of, and which factors motivates or depletes their drive.

Reviewing your achievements to spot common themes is also beneficial. "Try not to just looking at the recent past, as people often suffer from to focus on the recent that can obstruct clear thinking," she notes.

A former editor notes it is crucial to establish what place your job occupies in your life.

This means being truthful regarding the hours you devote to work and its impact on your personal and social life.

After being let go, she advises against letting your identity be dictated by your job.

2. Implement Gradual Moves

The advisor says people can implement incremental moves for a career transition without committing fully.

Her own journey required a long period to transition from a traditional job to running her own business completely, working on the venture while still employed, which allowed self-funding from the start.

"It needed more time, but that was how I did it sustainably," she says.

She suggests a "try before you buy" strategy.

This could be pro bono work, getting involved in a professional project you find appealing, or saying yes to a new challenge within your current team.

"The worst outcome, you find out you don't like, however, it's wiser to find out now instead of after you've committed fully," she remarks.

Additionally, she suggests exploring temporary "stepping-stone" positions. They are perhaps not the ideal job, but they act as a step towards your goal, for example a position with similarities to your desired career, yet not in the same area.

"It involves granting yourself the space to accept this is suitable temporarily, however, that is not for all time.

"This is a very smart tactic to get nearer to that desired transition."

3. Acknowledge Your Accomplishments

If you've recently been made redundant from your position, you are not the only one – job cuts have risen significantly lately.

She was the top editor for a fashion publication, previously she and her team were laid off after the company discontinued the physical magazine.

Understanding that this event did not reflect of her ability helped her cope with the situation.

"Your experience doesn't go away because you lost your job.

"Don't give up your confidence, it's important for all individuals to recall their own value."

The other editor lost her job after a decade with a finance publication after a change in management and the arrival of new leadership.

She emphasizes that so much of the shame associated with being fired is internal.

"Considering the vast numbers of professionals losing jobs, it's rarely personal. It's likely not your fault, so don't carry that feeling unnecessarily."

4. Build a Job Search List

For those who are urgently looking for employment or are profoundly unhappy at work, the temptation is to dive straight into applying at any opportunity – ignoring what suits you.

Yet, this can be a big misstep.

Alternatively, she proposes a technique known as "reviewing" – narrowing your search down to role profiles that sound interesting.

She recommends searching job platforms and saving around 10 to 15 that seem promising.

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