Building Resilience During a Career Setback

Career setbacks—layoffs, missed promotions, failed projects—are inevitable, but how you respond determines your long-term trajectory. In my coaching practice, I’ve worked with professionals at every level who faced unexpected obstacles. The most resilient among them share three habits.

First, they reframe setbacks as learning opportunities. One client, a product manager passed over for promotion, used the experience to identify skill gaps and seek targeted mentorship. Within a year, she not only earned the promotion but also became a mentor herself.

Second, resilient professionals maintain a support network. After a layoff, another client organized weekly virtual coffee chats with former colleagues. These conversations provided emotional support and led to freelance opportunities that bridged the gap to his next full-time role.

Finally, they set small, achievable goals to regain momentum. Rather than fixating on the setback, they focus on daily wins—updating a resume, reaching out to a new contact, or learning a new tool.

Resilience isn’t about avoiding hardship; it’s about adapting and growing through it. By reframing challenges, leaning on your network, and taking consistent action, you can turn setbacks into springboards for future success.