Extension Focuses for the 21st Century

A workplace restructuring process creates loss for everyone involved. For those leaving the organization and for those who remain, there are losses of old and familiar surroundings, friends, a sense of place and a loss of security. There is an emotional detachment that throws a person into unfamiliar territory, raising doubts about one's competence and one's sense of direction. The familiar becomes foreign and that which we took for granted becomes alien.

Everyone will experience some common feelings and thoughts and, at the same time, each person has to decide how he or she will respond to these losses. For example, fear of the future is a common feeling. One person may avoid thinking about the future or fully feel the fear of the unknown and concentrate on the present. This person will attempt to undo the decisions that have been made or will challenge them. Someone else will recognize their hurt and loss, but then begin to focus on ideas for future alternatives.

While one person may concentrate on the calamity of what has happened, another person will see it as a challenge and begin to put their energies into mapping a new career. For those remaining in the organization, there are decisions to be made about moving on as well. New systems need to be developed; new solutions to new problems need to be explored.

We have all handled many losses in our lives and, for the most part, handled them well. Remember back to other losses and how, at the time, these felt so difficult to handle. But we made choices and moved ahead. We can draw strength from these past experiences and memories. Keep in mind that although we are all in many ways very fragile, we are also very resilient.

For more information, contact the University of Minnesota Employee Assistance Program at 612-626-0253.

--David W. Johnson, Director                    
U of MN Employee Assistance Program

Produced by Communication and Educational Technology Services, University of Minnesota Extension.

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