According to Sander Flaum, challenging times like these should be faced with courage and bravery. You’ve got to move forward and keep fighting to achieve your objective. To this end, here are five steps from Flaum’s book, The Best Thing That Could Ever Happen to You: How a Career Reversal Can Reinvigorate Your Life, that can help you turn a setback into a triumph.

1. Don’t sabotage yourself.

After losing a job, it’s natural to feel a little bit less confident. Whether you were fired or got laid off, your self-esteem can take a hit when you’re suddenly unemployed.

However, always remember that you are still a worthwhile, contributing member of society. Belittling your achievements and depreciating yourself and your sense of worth can only make your situation worse. Thinking that you’re a failure won’t help you move forward and find a new job.

Companies have reasons for firing employees. It’s not always about you; sometimes it’s about factors that are beyond your control. So, clear your head and start believing in yourself.

2. Stand out.

Reinvent yourself by developing a unique personal brand. No matter how tough the economy is, you have to remind yourself to always be outstanding. Outshine other people by being the best – create a new you.

Moreover, to remake yourself, discover what you really like to do and think about how you can set yourself apart. Just being able to admit to yourself that you’re exceptional at doing something is a major accomplishment.

When you’ve finally discovered what you’re really good at, work hard to be the best at it. Stand out and be on top.

3. Look for recruiters.

Many people think that recruiters are always hard to talk to and very picky, but actually reaching out to a recruiter is an exceptionally good move. They may have high standards, but once you show them that “personal brand” you’ve developed, you might just catch their attention.

Forge a lasting relationship with recruiters so that your chances of success in your job search will increase dramatically.

4. Get a resume makeover.

Once you’re finished developing a personal brand, work on your resume and create something that will effortlessly help you in selling yourself. Describe your accomplishments rather than just all the previous jobs you’ve had. Most of all, build a reputation and demonstrate your value as a professional.

5. Focus on your job references.

Having a strong network of references can help you bolster your chances of getting a job. Choose your references wisely, and find out what they plan to say if they are called. If you think it’s pushy to inquire about this, I’m telling you it’s not; there’s nothing wrong with discussing it.

We’ve discussed five ways to help you find your footing after losing a job. Who knows – you may land a job that will take you far beyond what you thought you could ever achieve.