How to Build Career Resilience During a Recession: Insights from The Psychology of Money
Lately, many of the people I work with have shared a familiar feeling: unease. Between news about possible recessions, constant headlines about layoffs, and an unpredictable job market, there’s this underlying sense of tension, like we’re all waiting for the other shoe to drop. And to be honest, I’ve felt it too.
During a recent moment of uncertainty, I picked up The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel—a book that had been recommended to me more than once. I expected to gain a few financial tips. What I didn’t expect was how much it would change the way I think about work, money, and what it means to navigate your career during uncertain times.
Staying in the Game Matters
One story that stood out was about Ronald Read, a janitor who lived simply, saved consistently, and over time built a quiet fortune. No dramatic career moves or overnight success—just steady, patient effort over a lifetime.
That really shifted how I think about career success. We’re often told we need bold leaps, major pivots, or a constant upward climb. But sometimes, the smartest choice is the one that’s sustainable. Especially in times of uncertainty, continuing to show up and make thoughtful decisions can be just as powerful as taking a risk.
This is something I often explore with clients: what it means to build a career that is both meaningful and manageable. The pace doesn’t have to be extreme to be effective.
You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out
Another idea from the book that resonated deeply: no one can perfectly predict what’s next. And waiting for the “right moment” to make a change often keeps people stuck, especially when things feel unpredictable already.
Housel talks about the importance of building a “margin of safety.” In your career, that could mean refreshing your resume, having conversations with people in your field, or slowly building skills that give you more options. You don’t have to map out your entire future. You just need room to breathe and space to move when the time feels right.
If you’ve been waiting for everything to feel certain before making a change, this might be your reminder that progress doesn’t always need perfect conditions.
Resilience Counts More Than Perfection
Economic downturns and job uncertainty are challenging, but they’re not new. Time and again, people adapt, shift course, and find their footing again. That truth doesn’t make it easy, but it does help put things into perspective.
It reminded me (and reminds many of my clients) that we don’t need to have a flawless five-year plan. What matters is showing up, making small, consistent moves, and adjusting as we go. Progress doesn’t need to be dramatic—it just needs to continue.
It’s Okay to Change Directions
Housel also talks about how some of the most dissatisfied people he’s met are those who locked themselves into a career path early on—and never allowed themselves to change, even when it no longer felt right.
I see this often with clients who come to me feeling burnt out, bored, or quietly restless. They’re not broken—they’re just ready to grow. Shifting direction doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re paying attention.
Whether you’re considering a small adjustment or a big leap, your path can evolve. You’re allowed to change—and that change can lead to more alignment and satisfaction than you thought possible.
Final Thoughts
The Psychology of Money didn’t give me all the answers. But it did give me something even more valuable: a mindset rooted in patience, flexibility, and resilience.
If you’re feeling uncertain about your career right now, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Whether you’re thinking about changing jobs, exploring something new, or just trying to feel less anxious about what’s next, I’d love to help you create a plan that feels grounded—even when everything else doesn’t.
