How Can High Achievers Cope with Job Loss or Career Uncertainty?
For many high achievers, a career isn’t just a job it’s a reflection of identity, self-worth, and success. So when job loss or career uncertainty strikes, it can shake the foundation of everything you’ve worked for. Whether you’re a government worker facing layoffs, a contractor navigating a sudden pivot, a student navigating next steps, or a professional feeling stuck in career limbo, the emotional impact can be immense. Used to being in control, setting goals, and checking every box, a sudden loss of career direction can trigger overwhelming stress, insecurity, comparison and self-doubt.
High Achievers, Anxiety, and Career Uncertainty
High achievers tend to experience internal pressure that can lead to what’s known as high-functioning anxiety, where someone appears to be managing well on the outside but is struggling silently on the inside. If this resonates with you, you might be wondering what is the treatment for high functioning anxiety?
In times of career uncertainty, this anxiety can manifest as racing thoughts, restlessness, irritability, sleep problems, social withdrawal, and even physical symptoms like tension headaches or digestive issues. While some level of stress is normal, it's important to recognize when it becomes unmanageable. Many high achievers downplay their distress because they’re so used to pushing through, doing this can lead some to thinking “is this high achiever stress or an anxiety disorder?”
Coping Strategies for Career Uncertainty
Even in uncertain times, there are ways to ground yourself and regain a sense of agency:
Set small, achievable goals: When the future feels out of control, focusing on what you can control helps. Update your resume, schedule informational interviews, or take a course you’ve been putting off.
Rebuild your routine: High achievers thrive on structure. Establish a daily rhythm even if it’s simple to maintain focus and mental clarity.
Challenge catastrophic thinking: It’s easy to go from “I lost my job” to “I’ll never work again.” Practice noticing and reframing those thoughts.
Lean into your support system: Let trusted friends, mentors, or family know what you’re going through. You don’t have to carry this alone.
Reflect on values and purpose: Take time to evaluate what you truly want in your next career move. What matters most to you now may be different than five years ago.
Limit doom-scrolling: Constant exposure to economic news or social media comparisons can heighten anxiety. Schedule time-limited news checks and focus on activities that nourish you.
Strengthen your identity outside of work: Who are you as a person? A family member? A community participant? Are there hobbies you’ve neglected, or ones you’ve been meaning to try? Work is only a part of your identity, and reengaging with the other components can help you feel more like yourself again.
Take breaks: Set times to not think about your job search or career plans. Your mind and emotions need a rest.
How Therapy Can Help High Achievers Navigate Career Stress
Job loss can be one of the most stressful and isolating experiences of a person’s life, and career uncertainty brings a chronic stress that can make it difficult to function. Professional anxiety therapy can provide important guidance and support during this difficult time, as well as non-judgemental help as you plan your next steps. The expert anxiety therapists at Dr. Dawn Johnson & Associates are equipped to help you develop effective strategies to balance your career goals with your well-being.
You don’t have to sacrifice your mental health to succeed. At Dr. Dawn Johnson & Associates, we help professionals redefine success in a way that includes peace of mind, flexibility, and resilience.
Start your path toward a healthier, more sustainable success by scheduling a consultation today. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
Schedule a free 20-minute consultation to see if anxiety therapy is right for you.
Begin meeting with one of our skilled anxiety therapists.
Start coping with your career stress in a healthier way.
Other Services Offered at Dr. Dawn Johnson & Associates in Washington D.C. & Virginia
At Dr. Dawn Johnson & Associates, we want to help you thrive. In addition to supporting clients experiencing job loss and career pivots, we also offer services for those struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, infertility, academic or work concerns, disordered eating, and more.