💰 Financial Grounding

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Get clear of where you stand and build a safety net

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• [ ] Review your savings and calculate how long you can cover basic expenses (rent, food, insurance). Ideally you have at least 6 months, 9 months would be better in current market. Discuss with your partner if you have one.
• [ ] Check your company’s notice period and vacation payout policy. If possible find out how’s the severance package look like from your ex-colleagues
• [ ] Understand your unemployment benefits (e.g., Arbeitslosengeld I in Germany, Unemployment Insurance in the US**)** — eligibility, timeline, and documents needed.
• [ ] Understand your health insurance options (e.g., can it be covered by Family plan / Argentur Für Arbeit in Germany / COBRA in the US)
• [ ] Cancel or pause non-essential subscriptions and memberships.
• [ ] Keep a copy of your latest payslips, tax records, and employment contract for future applications.

Clarity over your finances reduces anxiety and gives you breathing space.

💻 Save and Backup Your Work

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Keep your professional footprint intact

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• [ ] Download or email yourself non-confidential samples of your work (portfolios, achievements, metrics).
• [ ] Backup personal files, certificates, contact lists, and work references.
• [ ] Remove personal data from your company laptop or Slack/Google Drive (before access is revoked).
• [ ] Save contact details of managers, teammates, and mentors who could give references.

Your experience is your asset, keep the proof safe.

🌏 Refresh Your CV and Online Presence

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Update before you need it

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