Redundancy: Finding Purpose Again

daveking3333
Jul 18
2 min read

You have done a fantastic job guiding other people or teams and showing the way
You have added real value through some very tough times and work was your life
You know everybody and everyone relies on you, respects you and needs you to support them

Then one day — out of nowhere — you hear words like:

“We’re restructuring.”·

“We will look after You"

“You’ve been an important part of the team”

“Unfortunately, your position is no longer required"

This is redundancy. But it can feel a lot like rejection

Whether you're 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60+, your confidence will be shaken and you may even wonder if your career is over for good.

But I want you to hear this clearly:

You are not past your prime or too overqualified to change
You are not outdated, done or unable to adapt
You have experience, knowledge and proven results

For many people, their profession forms an integral part of their personal identity. A job loss affects more than just employment, it can deeply impact a person's identity, often in ways only those who have experienced this would understand.

Redundancy can result in a loss of structure, purpose, routine, relationships, status and self-belief. Redundancy has become more common in recent years and is regarded with less negativity than before, but it may still be an unexpected event for individuals.

Many people find it challenging to observe their colleagues and friends transitioning quickly at work, which can contribute to a sense of being easily replaced. Clients often say that labels like they are "lucky," "rich," or "free" do not help them adapt to major life changes.