So, the news came — and it wasn’t what you expected.
Whether it was because of a restructuring, business closure, or downsizing, retrenchment can feel like a blow to the gut. It’s not just about losing a job, but it can feel like losing your sense of direction, identity, and stability all at once.
Here’s the truth that often gets lost in the haze of shock: You are more than your last job title. And while this chapter may feel uncertain, it can also be the beginning of something better.
Here are some gentle, real-world ways to start picking up the pieces — and rebuild your career and confidence.
1. Let yourself feel — but don’t let it define you
Take a moment for yourself. Or even several. Retrenchment, especially when it happens unexpectedly, can trigger grief, self-doubt, and even shame. These feelings are valid but bottling them up will not do you any good.
Where possible, talk it out with someone you trust. Otherwise, you may choose to write your thoughts down. It’s perfectly alright to give yourself the space to process what has happened, so you can slowly make room for what’s next.
Before you move forward, it’s okay to first sit with where you are.
2. Get clear on where you stand financially
Finances are often the most pressing worry post-retrenchment. Now’s a good time to take a closer look at your budget: What are your fixed costs? Where can you cut back temporarily? Knowing what you’re working with helps you make informed decisions.
If finances are your main worry, support does exist.
If your job loss was involuntary and you earned $5,000 or less a month on average in the last 12 months, you may be eligible for the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme. It offers temporary financial payouts of up to $6,000 over six months to help tide you through this transition.
What’s unique is that the support is tied to your effort: You’ll earn points each month by doing job search activities, such as submitting applications, attending interviews, or going for career coaching. Once you hit the monthly point target, you receive a payout.
It’s a way to acknowledge the real work that goes into rebuilding your career, while giving you financial breathing room.
The first step to regaining control often begins with understanding where you stand.
Seeking employment help? Make an appointment to see a career coach to help with your job search.
3. Focus on progress, not perfection
You don’t need to have your five-year plan figured out right now. Take it one step at a time and start small. Update your resume. If you have never tried networking before, you can begin with reaching out to old colleagues.
Keep yourself updated on the latest career trends. Consider reflecting on what you want more of (or less) in your next role. Was your previous job aligned with your strengths and values? If not, this could be your window to pivot slowly and purposefully. Not sure how? Try the CareersFinder feature on the MyCareersFuture jobs portal.
You don’t have to leap. Sometimes, small steady steps are the bravest moves.
4. Lean into support — you don’t have to do this alone
It’s okay to ask for help. In fact, it’s smart. Career coaches, job portals, and skills-matching tools can help uncover options you might not have considered. And if you’re tapping on the Jobseeker Support Scheme, sessions with career coaches are part of the package! If you’ve been out of the job search game for quite a while, a structured plan guided by someone who knows the job market makes the entire process more manageable and hopeful.
There’s strength in asking for help — and even more in knowing where to find it.
Looking for a new role? Explore over 100,000 jobs available on MyCareersFuture now!
5. Redefine what success looks like for you
Now that you have some time on your hands, it’s good to reflect on your career journey and recalibrate. Maybe success used to mean climbing the ladder in your company. Now, it might look like finding a role that gives you flexibility, aligns with your interests, or simply helps you regain your footing.
There’s no one definition of progress, especially after a career detour. Permit yourself to grow at your own pace.
Your journey is valid, even if it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.
You’re still you — and that’s enough
Your last job may be gone, but your skills, experience, and potential haven’t gone anywhere. They’re probably sharper now, with resilience added to the mix. Though this season might feel uncomfortable, it’s also an opportunity.
With the right support systems in place — emotional, practical, and yes, financial — you’re more than capable of rebuilding a future that works for you. And remember: Needing help doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human. The kind that keeps going — even after the unexpected.
