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The beginning of a new year can be a moment for introspection, and for a lot of us, that includes considering our work lives.

Two publishing professionals who left their jobs following company reorganizations at first believed it was a disaster.

"I dedicated all my energy into that role... I had faith in the principles we stood for. However, regarding my situation, those values didn't apply," one of them states.

Both individuals opted to use the term "let go" and believe that being honest about it can aid you deal with the experience.

"We use countless alternative phrases for losing a job. However, the quicker you accept it, the sooner you're honest about it, the quicker you can advance.

"That is the direct path to whatever you want next," she adds.

Currently, they are thriving in new ventures, where one running a media business and the other working as editor-in-chief at a prestigious publication.

Whether you've been made redundant or are just looking for a new career, consider these four approaches for guidance.

1. Consider The Previous Year

It's common to feel a bit low regarding your job following time off.

A career expert stresses the necessity of introspection before starting a fresh job hunt.

She advises individuals to think about what they wish to pursue more, what they want less of, and the things that energizes or exhausts their drive.

Looking back at your achievements to identify common themes is useful too. "Avoid focusing solely on the recent past, because we all suffer from to focus on the recent that can hinder the process," she adds.

She also notes it is vital to establish where your work fits in your life.

This involves being honest regarding the hours you spend working and its impact on your family and family life.

After her own experience, she recommends against letting your identity be defined by your work.

2. Implement Gradual Moves

The advisor says people can take small steps towards a career shift without a complete leap.

She required a long period to move from a traditional job to running her own business completely, working on the venture alongside her job, which allowed she could pay herself.

"It took additional time, however, that was the method I used sustainably," she comments.

She suggests a "try before you buy" method.

This can include pro bono work, joining an initiative you find appealing, or agreeing to a new challenge in your existing role.

"If it fails, you find out that area isn't for you, however, it's wiser to find out now rather than after you've switched careers," she adds.

She also advises looking into short-term "bridging roles". These might not be the perfect role, yet they function as a step forward, for example a position with similarities to your target field, though not in the exact area.

"It involves giving yourself the permission to say this is good for now, but that isn't the same as forever.

"That represents an intelligent approach for moving closer to a new career."

3. Remember Your Successes

For anyone who has recently lost your position, you are not the only one – job cuts have risen significantly lately.

One professional was editor-in-chief at a style magazine, previously her entire team were laid off after the company ceased print operations.

Understanding that this situation was not a reflection of her ability assisted her process the change.

"The skills you've gained remains with you just because you were dismissed.

"Do not surrender your power, it's important for everyone to recognize their intrinsic value."

Her colleague lost her job after a decade with a finance publication following a regime change in senior ranks and the hiring of a new editor.

She emphasizes that a lot of the embarrassment associated with being fired is internal.

"Considering the vast numbers of professionals losing jobs, it's not personal. It's probably very much not you, so don't carry that ball of shame around with you."

4. Develop a Job Search List

For those who are urgently looking for employment or are utterly miserable with your present job, the temptation is to jump at for any vacancy – ignoring your own happiness.

However, this represents a big misstep.

Rather, she recommends a technique known as "reviewing" – narrowing your search to only job descriptions that seem appealing.

She advises searching job platforms and gathering a selection of that you like.

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