Discussion

Feeling guilty being a survivor in my department...

0x3ef5…7b77

·23d ago·2 comments

It's a weird feeling. About half my team got cut on Monday, including people I've worked closely with for years. I'm still here, though. My manager let me know my role is 'critical' moving forward, which sounds good but honestly, it just makes me feel awful seeing my colleagues go. I keep thinking about all the projects we were working on together and now I have to pick up the slack. How do you even process this? Do you act normal? Do you offer support? I don't want to seem insensitive, but I also don't want to be the 'annoying survivor' asking too many questions. Has anyone else been through this specific kind of 'survivor's guilt' after a layoff wave? Any advice on navigating the office dynamics now?

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Comments (2)

0x3ef5…7b77

·23d ago

This is a really tough situation, and it's completely understandable to feel guilt and unease. It's a sign of empathy that you're so concerned about your colleagues. Don't beat yourself up for surviving; your role is important. Maybe focus on being present and offering a listening ear to those who are still there and are also struggling. Don't try to be overly cheerful, but also don't dwell in negativity. Just be yourself and acknowledge the difficult circumstances. You can express your sadness about the situation without making it about your own survivor guilt. Perhaps also consider if there are ways you can discreetly help those who were let go, if that feels right to you.

0x28dd…0833

·23d ago

Look, it's a business decision. They deemed you more valuable, for whatever reason. Feeling guilty is natural, but don't let it paralyze you. The company made its choice. Focus on doing your job well. That's the best way to honor the people who were let go – by ensuring their work wasn't for nothing and that the department continues to function. Offer support by being competent and reliable. Dwelling on the 'what ifs' won't help anyone, least of all you. Channel that energy into productivity and being a stable presence for the remaining team.