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A new year's onset can be a time for reflection, and for numerous people, that involves evaluating our professional paths.

Two editors who were made redundant from their jobs after corporate restructures at first believed it was a disaster.

"I poured all my energy into the job... I had faith in the principles we championed. Yet, when it came to me, those values didn't apply," she remarks.

Both individuals chose to say "let go" and believe that being transparent about it can aid you deal with the experience.

"People rely on numerous alternative phrases for job loss. But the faster you accept it, the sooner you're candid regarding it, the quicker you can progress.

"That's the quickest route to anything you want to pursue next," she continues.

Currently, they are excelling in different roles, where one owning her own firm and the other holding the position of editor-in-chief for a high-end journal.

For those who have been made redundant or are just contemplating a change, consider these four methods that can help.

1. Contemplate The Past Year

It's common to experience a bit low about work following time off.

A career expert highlights the necessity of reflection before embarking on the search for a new role.

She suggests people to consider what they want to do more of, what they want less of, and what inspires or drains them.

Examining your achievements to spot recurring patterns is also beneficial. "Try not to considering only the last month, since everyone exhibit to focus on the recent that can hinder your judgment," she adds.

A former editor notes it is important to determine what place your job plays in your life.

This requires being candid about how much time you spend working and the influence on your personal life.

Following her job loss, she recommends preventing your identity be defined by your career.

2. Make Small Steps

She states that individuals can implement small steps for a career transition without committing fully.

Her own journey took several years to move from her corporate career to running her own business full-time, working on her idea alongside her job, which meant self-funding from the start.

"It took more time, but that was the method I used without risk," she comments.

She recommends a "try before you buy" approach.

This might involve pro bono work, participating in an initiative that interests you, or saying yes to something different at your present job.

"The worst outcome, you find out you don't like, but it's preferable to know now than after you've switched careers," she states.

She also advises looking into interim roles. These might not be the dream position, but they act as progress in the right direction, for example a position that shares traits to your desired career, though not in the exact industry or sector.

"It involves granting yourself the leeway to accept this works for now, but that does not mean permanent.

"That represents a clever tactic for moving much closer to your career change."

3. Remember Your Successes

Should you have recently been made redundant from your position, you aren't alone – job cuts have surged to high levels lately.

A former editor was the top editor in a magazine, but a few years ago she were laid off when the firm ceased print operations.

Recognizing that this situation was not a reflection of her skills assisted her cope with the situation.

"Your experience doesn't disappear simply due to lost your job.

"Do not surrender your power, it's important for all individuals to recall their own value."

Her colleague was fired after ten years in a business journal following a regime change at the top and the arrival of a new editor.

She emphasizes that much of the stigma of dismissal is internal.

"With many individuals facing redundancy, it's rarely personal. It's likely not about you, so don't carry that feeling around with you."

4. Create a Career Checklist

If you're desperately seeking employment or are utterly miserable with your present job, you might be tempted to jump at for any job – disregarding your own happiness.

Yet, this can be a big misstep.

Instead, she suggests a method called "scanning" – narrowing your search to only position summaries that capture your interest.

She advises exploring professional networks and saving around 10 to 15 that appeal to you.

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