Losing a job or experiencing an unexpected career change can be tough, especially for someone already managing the impact of a cancer diagnosis or recovery. It’s natural to feel uncertain about what comes next.

At Cancer and Careers, we often hear from survivors who describe career setbacks as moments that, while difficult, helped them reassess what they truly wanted, and what no longer served them. Whether you’re reentering the workforce, looking for a new role, or figuring out how to balance work and health, this period can be an opportunity to pause and realign.

A recent Fast Company article highlights the importance of mental framing in this moment. Here are the top three suggestions:

1. Reframe your story.A job loss doesn’t have to be the end of a chapter; it can be the start of a new one. Assess what this can mean for you and think about what possibilities might be opening up. Shifting the story you tell yourself can shift your next steps, too.

2. Revisit past experiences.Look back at your work journey so far. What have been your defining moments? What strengths did you use to get through difficult moments? Those skills won’t disappear just because a job does.

3. Redefine what success looks like now.It’s ok if our goals look a little different than they once did. Take stock of what matters most today, and let that guide your next move.

Work transitions can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re updating your résumé, exploring new career paths, or seeking confidence to start again, Cancer and Careers is here to help. Visit www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work to explore our free job search tools and resources.