In the last 3 to 5 months, over 300,000 Black women have exited the U.S. workforce, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

We’re not talking long-term trends — this is now. Layoffs. Corporate restructuring. Burnout. Family responsibilities. And somehow, Black women are still expected to pivot without pause.

But here’s what we know at Urban Mommy Inc. Org:

This isn’t just a crisis — it’s a crossroads.

Maybe this isn’t a breakdown — maybe it’s a break open.

Maybe this is your moment to heal, pivot, and rebuild on your own terms.

If you’ve found yourself unexpectedly unemployed, under-employed, or just emotionally done — you are not alone. And you’re not without options.

First: Reclaim Your Narrative

Losing a job is painful. It can bring fear, shame, or even numbness. But your job was never your full identity — your story is so much bigger than a job title.

To help guide you through this season, we recommend journaling, planning, and reclaiming your inner voice. Start with this:

📝 My Life, My Way: A Journal for Women Rebuilding With Purpose by Monique Joseph

This is more than a journal. It’s a space to reconnect with yourself and map your next steps intentionally, day by day.

Because before you update your resume or write a business plan — you’ve got to check in with you.

What Comes Next? Let’s Break It Down

We’ve curated resources to help you pivot, create, or elevate in this next chapter — whether you want to launch something of your own or prepare to re-enter the job market stronger than ever.

1. Start Fresh: Launch a Business That’s Yours

If this moment is pushing you toward independence, listen to that nudge. You don’t have to know it all — you just have to start small and start smart.

Startup Support + Funding:

IFundWomen of Color: Coaching, funding, and visibility for women of color founders Black Girl Ventures: Capital and pitch competitions for Black/Brown entrepreneurs Hello Alice: Regularly updated grants, mentorship, and small business support

Free Planning Tools:

SCORE: Free mentoring and business templates Women’s Business Centers: Government-funded business development hubs across the U.S.

2. Rebuild Your Confidence & Mental Strength

Leaving a job suddenly can leave you emotionally shaken. It’s more than money — it’s identity, stability, routine. If you’re feeling unsteady, this is your sign to prioritize inner healing before chasing new roles.

Building Resilience by Monique Joseph

This short and powerful guide offers mental clarity, reflection prompts, and real strategies for bouncing back with strength, intention, and self-compassion.

It’s a must-read for any woman finding her way back after disappointment or transition.

3. Resume Glow-Up & Career Coaching

Your next opportunity may look different from your last — and that’s okay. Let’s get your materials to match your worth:

HireBlack: Resume audits, interview prep, and job leads for Black women Black Career Women’s Network: Career coaching, workshops, and real-talk networking Resume Worded: Free feedback on your resume and LinkedIn profile

And while you’re updating your resume, make sure your mindset is aligned too. Use the My Life, My Way Journal as your weekly check-in to stay focused and grounded during the job search.

4. Upskill Without Student Debt

You don’t need another degree — you need practical, flexible certifications that open new doors. Whether you’re drawn to tech, design, project management, or wellness — these platforms deliver.

Coursera Career Certificates: Google, Meta, IBM-backed career programs Grow with Google: Data analysis, marketing, and more LinkedIn Learning: Micro-courses to add skills quickly and affordably

Most of these programs are self-paced and can be started immediately.

Final Word: You’re Not Starting Over — You’re Starting From Experience

There’s grief in transition — and there’s grit too.

Let this moment be one where you slow down, reflect, and rebuild with power. Get the tools. Build your tribe. Do it your way.

Get the tools to walk through this with intention:

My Life, My Way: A Journal for Women Rebuilding With Purpose Building Resilience: How to Regroup, Reflect, and Rise Again

Need more resources or 1:1 support? Email us at urbanmommyorg@gmail.com

We’ll send you a curated toolkit to fit your season and your goals.

Sources:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, June 2024 Jobs Report, The 19th News.Org, July 2025, CNBC, “Black women hit hardest by recent layoffs and restructuring,” May 2024 Harvard Business Review, Why Black Women Are Leading the Entrepreneurship Boom, 2021 McKinsey & Company, Women in the Workplace 2023