How To Stay Motivated At Work After Being Demoted

Getting demoted can be as devastating as being fired.

It can be very stressful, too, and if you fail to handle this situation, you can be demotivated to work, which can lead to the worst – termination.

So, in order to stay inspired to work after falling a few notches down the job ladder, consider the following:

1. Know the reason for the decision.

Is the demotion done to purposely insult someone? Or is it a way to say, “Hey, you messed up on this part, and you need to go a step down as a consequence.” If the demotion is a real consequence of your shortcomings, or a mistake that cost your company bigtime, then you should learn to accept it. It seems pretty fair if you just broaden your perspective.

2. Realize that you're not a failure.

At this point, you might be considering yourself a huge failure. Be careful with this line of thinking, because it can destroy you. The only way this is true is if you continue to lose your motivation to work, and fail to do something about it. Remember, failure is not really about “falling down,” it is about staying stuck down there. Learn how to pick yourself up. If you need to start all over again, then do so. This is easier said than done, yes. But, if that’s the only upright way to do it, then so be it. Sometimes it’s all about acceptance. It’s all about learning how life really works.

3. Console yourself.

At least you still have a job! That would be the worst thing that can happen considering the not-so good thing you have done at work. At least you are still able to provide for yourself and your family. At least your company still trusts you. Think of the millions of people begging for jobs. This is a good time to give yourself a pat on the shoulder.

4. Treat it as a learning experience.

Learn how to convert a negative thing into something positive, because it’s possible. This experience can make you a stronger better person. Yes, you’ve heard this many times, but it’s true. You may be able to realize a lot of great things while you are undergoing this very tough situation. Pick up the gold nuggets you find on your way.

5. Don’t be too harsh on yourself.

Do not beat yourself up, belittle, or call yourself ugly names during this time. It won’t do you any good. You will, in fact, mirror and live what you tag yourself; and if you get used to it, it would be hard to break free and make yourself believe otherwise. Sometimes you need to use the justification, “I’m only a human who makes mistakes.”

6. Focus on the solution.

Instead of draining your mental, emotional, and physical powers on the problem, focus all your energy on finding solutions. It’s OK to cry over it, question, and blame yourself or other people so you can exhale all your bad feelings, but learn when to stop, dust yourself off, and get moving again.

7. Continue working until you reach the top again!