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A new year's onset is often a time for reflection, and for many, that encompasses thinking about our professional paths.

A pair of editors who lost their roles after corporate restructures originally thought it was catastrophic.

"I poured all my energy into that role... I trusted in the values we championed. However, regarding my situation, that ethos didn't apply," she says.

The two opted to say "let go" and suggest that being honest about it can help you deal with the event.

"People rely on numerous euphemisms for losing a job. However, the quicker you acknowledge it, the faster you're truthful about it, the faster you can move on.

"It's the quickest route to anything you want next," she adds.

Currently, they are thriving in new ventures, where one owning her own media company and the other serving as editor-in-chief for a luxury magazine.

Whether you've lost your job or are just contemplating a change, here are four methods that can help.

1. Contemplate The Past Year

It's common to experience some unease about work after a holiday break.

A professional advisor stresses the importance of reflection before starting the search for a new role.

She suggests people to consider what they wish to pursue more, what they want less of, and what energizes or exhausts their energy.

Examining your achievements to spot common themes can also help. "Try to avoid focusing solely on the last month, because we all have a tendency for recent-event bias that can obstruct the process," she notes.

She also states it is vital to establish what place your job plays in your life.

This requires being candid regarding the hours you're working and the influence on your family and social life.

Following her job loss, she suggests against letting your life be dictated by your job.

2. Make Gradual Moves

The expert states that individuals can implement incremental moves for a career transition without a complete leap.

Her own journey took several years to transition from her corporate career to managing her own company entirely, working on her idea while still employed, which enabled financial stability.

"It took more time, however, that was my approach in a sustainable way," she says.

She suggests a "try before you buy" approach.

This can include pro bono work, participating in a work project that interests you, or agreeing to something different in your existing role.

"Worst case scenario, you learn it's not a fit, but it's better to find out now rather than after you've made the move," she adds.

Additionally, she suggests exploring temporary "stepping-stone" positions. These might not be the dream position, but they serve as a step forward, such as a role that shares traits to your target field, though not in the exact area.

"It's about granting yourself the permission to say this works for now, but that does not mean for all time.

"This is a clever approach for moving nearer to a career change."

3. Remember Your Accomplishments

For anyone who has recently been made redundant from your role, many are in the same boat – layoff figures have surged significantly lately.

She was the top editor for a fashion publication, previously she and her team were made redundant after the company discontinued the physical magazine.

Realizing that this situation did not reflect of her performance assisted her handle the transition.

"Your experience remains with you just because you were let go.

"Don't relinquish your power, it's crucial for everyone to remember their intrinsic value."

Her colleague was let go after a decade with a finance publication after a change in management and the hiring of a new editor.

She notes that much of the stigma of job loss is in your head.

"Considering the vast numbers of professionals losing jobs, it's not personal. Chances are not about you, so refrain from bearing that ball of shame unnecessarily."

4. Create a Career Checklist

If you're urgently looking for employment or are profoundly unhappy at work, it can be tempting to apply hastily for any vacancy – ignoring what suits you.

Yet, this can be a significant mistake.

Instead, she suggests a method called "scanning" – filtering opportunities on role profiles that sound interesting.

She recommends searching sites like LinkedIn and gathering a selection of that you like.

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