Getting laid off is tough, but right before the holidays? It feels like a double punch.
I know this firsthand—my husband and I have been laid off four times around mid-November over the last decade.
Yep, four times. It’s hard to stay cheerful when you’re worrying about money, but somehow, we had to keep the holiday magic alive for our kids.
Losing your job any time is rough, but during the “most wonderful time of the year,” it can turn everything upside down.
It’s okay to feel scared or sad, but you don’t have to let it steal your season.
Here are some simple ways we got through those tough times and found moments of joy along the way.
1. Flip Your Mindset—Time Is on Your Side
Think of this as a chance to hit pause. You’ve got some unexpected free time now—use it to spend more moments with family, catch up with friends, or even tackle that home project you’ve been putting off.
A positive attitude can make all the difference. Clinical psychologist Kelly Vincent says, “Staying positive doesn’t mean ignoring how hard it is. It’s about finding small ways to keep hope alive while being kind to yourself.”
Pro Tip: Break your days into bite-sized chunks. Spend an hour or two on job hunting in the quiet of the morning or evening.
Then, let yourself enjoy the rest of the day guilt-free.
2. Make the Holidays Special Without the Splurge
The holidays don’t have to be about expensive gifts. One year, we told our kids the truth about Santa because we couldn’t fill the house with presents. Instead, we focused on experiences.
We bundled up, grabbed hot cocoa, and drove around looking at Christmas lights. At home, we made blanket forts and baked cookies.
My kids still talk about those memories. They didn’t care about the latest toys—they just wanted to spend time together.
3. Take Care of YOU
You might feel like you should be working nonstop to find a new job, but don’t forget to take care of yourself.
Move your body, eat well, and get enough sleep. These little things can keep your energy and mood up when times are tough.
4. Give Back and Feel the Love
One of the best ways to lift your spirits is to help someone else.
My family volunteered at animal shelters, served meals to families in need, and spent time with seniors in assisted living.
It didn’t cost a thing, but it made us feel rich in all the ways that matter.
5. Find Gratitude in the Small Stuff
Even when life feels upside down, there’s always something to be thankful for.
It could be as simple as a warm cup of coffee, a funny text from a friend, or a quiet morning to sleep in.
“Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be good,” says Vincent. Focus on little moments of connection, like laughing with your kids or enjoying a favorite holiday treat.
You’ve Got This
The holidays might look different this year, and that’s okay. Give yourself some grace and lean on your support system.
You’ll get through this season, and who knows? It might even remind you of the things that truly matter.
You’ve already made it this far—trust yourself to keep going. And hey, brighter days are just around the corner.