Feeling Doomed by DOGE Layoffs: 5 Steps to Find Worker Independence

Many employees once believed that federal government jobs offered stable careers. However, under the new Trump administration, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has focused on rightsizing the 2.3 million US federal workforce. Recent DOGE layoffs in the federal government have shaken that sense of career security for many workers. Professionals caught in this downsizing downdraft experience financial strain and emotional stress simultaneously. The sudden loss of income disrupts personal plans, household budgets, and career trajectories. The layoffs have been swift, catching many federal employees off guard. Regaining stability often requires a balanced approach, combining practical steps with a hopeful mindset. Affected individuals must explore new career paths while being attentive to mental well-being and financial planning. Getting back on track involves understanding changing employment trends and leveraging personal strengths. Some workers find fresh beginnings through entrepreneurial ventures, embracing worker independence and flexible work arrangements. While the initial shock from layoffs may be overwhelming, the good news is that many options exist to pivot to worker independence. In this blog, we discuss the rise of DOGE and the ongoing trends in US government layoffs. We offer five steps to find worker independence and build a stable future. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. Now, let’s get started.

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What is DOGE

Under the Trump administration, the newly established Department of Government Efficiency aims to streamline federal operations, reduce bureaucratic waste, and enhance accountability across government agencies. While it started as a concept, its mandate was rolled into the United States Digital Services. This initiative reflects the Trump administration’s commitment to cutting inefficiencies and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The department identifies redundant programs, eliminates unnecessary regulations, and implements cost-saving measures. Additionally, artificial intelligence and data analytics factor prominently in efforts to improve decision-making and operational transparency. This is not surprising given the rise in artificial intelligence and attempts to restructure the global workforce with AI. Moreover, the growth of Agentic AI and the transition toward Artificial General Intelligence suggest that large-scale private and public sector organizations with multiple layers have naturally become key targets.

Critics argue that creating DOGE contradicts its mission to reduce government size. At the same time, supporters believe it will drive long-term savings and improve public trust in government, which remains at all-time lows. Legal challenges to DOGE and its authority are underway, so it’s too early to tell if these rightsizing initiatives will last. Many of the lawsuits include challenges to legitimacy, worker benefits, data privacy, etc. However, what we do know is that once employees receive layoff notices, they are leaving their jobs and are now unemployed.

Attempts to rightsize the government are not a new concept. State and local governments are constantly rightsizing their workforce, given fiscal constraints and an evolving tax base. At the federal level, the last major effort on US government rightsizing occurred during the Clinton Administration with its National Partnership For Reinventing Government (NPR). The NPR initiatives outlined four core principles for reinventing government that included:

• Putting customers (American Taxpayers) first
• Cutting red tape
• Empowering employees to get results
• Cutting government back to basics

While the NPR initiatives had resulted in some changes in government, DOGE initiatives feel somewhat different and perhaps more permanent. When viewed across the government service value chain, advancements in technology suggest change will happen faster and be less likely to be reversed. Additionally, employee engagement methods have been somewhat unorthodox. DOGE’s success will depend on its ability to deliver measurable results without disrupting essential services. Overall, it represents a significant effort to further modernize and optimize federal governance.

The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Government

To understand the potential for the use of AI in government, the Chinese experience may provide a harbinger of things to come. With a civil service of 7.1 million workers, China is deploying artificial intelligence across various levels of government. Some initiatives include:

• 70+ AI systems deployed in Shenzhen’s Futian District, automating 11 government functions, including document processing, emergency response, and investment approvals.
• The Hangzhou City Brain Project reduced traffic congestion by 15% using AI-driven city management
• AI chatbots in Chinese courts have processed over 3 million legal inquiries annually with 90% accuracy
• China’s AI governance investment is projected to hit $38 billion by 2030, reinforcing its ambition to lead in AI-driven administration.

While there have been some benefits such as improved efficiency and the ability to scale, there is potential downside. Some of the downside risks from AI in government include:

• Data privacy
• Job displacement
• Accountability
• Overreliance on technology

Understanding the Impact of DOGE Layoffs

Layoffs at the Federal Government involving DOGE have triggered uncertainty for countless employees. Many individuals relied on stable paychecks to manage personal expenses. The abrupt changes have reshaped financial priorities, leaving some families vulnerable to mounting debt. Personal identities often revolve around professional roles, heightening the emotional impact of sudden unemployment.

Stress, worry, and sleepless nights can emerge, straining mental health further. Adjusting to these new circumstances requires both practical insight and emotional resilience. Those who prepare strategically stand a better chance of regaining balance and confidence. Financial planning becomes a critical step when steady wages disappear. Support systems also play a vital role.

Emotional tolls from layoffs can manifest in anxiety, self-doubt, or frustration. People often question their professional worth after losing positions they thought were secure. This internal conflict sometimes delays recovery because individuals feel lost without clear direction. Some start second-guessing every career decision, while others shut down altogether. Recognizing these emotional hurdles is crucial to developing a healthier perspective.

By acknowledging vulnerability, workers can seek counseling or peer support to navigate stress more effectively. Understanding that this phase is temporary will encourages creative approaches for moving forward.

List of Government Layoffs from DOGE and Key Locations

Reports indicate that DOGE layoffs have affected departments within major cities like Washington, D.C., New York, and Los Angeles. Smaller cities have been affected and exacerbated by the importance of the federal government in many of these jurisdictions. Official data reveals that various regulatory agencies and administrative offices are on the chopping block.. Some specialized roles, including legal experts and policy analysts, have also been dissolved due to shifting priorities.

These layoffs extend beyond high-profile locations, reaching smaller regional offices that handle community-level concerns. Federal divisions in states like Texas and Florida will likely face reductions, prompting nationwide uncertainty. The pattern suggests that employees across diverse sectors are grappling with the same financial and emotional fallout.

While the effect may not show up in the data for some time, the economic storm clouds are beginning to form. The Altanta Fed GDPNow estimate as of March 3, 2025, forecasts a (-2.8%) GDP contraction of 1Q 2025 GDP. This is down from a (-1.5%) contraction estimate on February 28 and a growth forecast of 2.9% on January 31.

Staff reductions have touched veterans’ affairs offices, social services agencies, and environmental oversight programs. Some downsized teams operated mission-critical functions, meaning the workload now falls on fewer shoulders. Employees still on board often shoulder extra responsibilities, intensifying workplace pressures. Morale dips as colleagues depart and uncertainty looms over the future. Workforce planning experts speculate that these actions aim to streamline operations amid fiscal constraints. However, the real outcomes for public service quality remain under scrutiny as smaller teams strive to meet significant demands.

In this new technology environment, we believe that things will begin to change. It is estimated that only 8% of the US federal government workforce is using AI. As such, incorporating AI into many functions will naturally create redundancies that can be eliminated.

5 Steps to Find Worker Independence

Achieving financial stability after a layoff requires a shift in mindset and approach. Many displaced government workers are now exploring independent career paths. Embracing self-employment, freelancing, or entrepreneurship offers new opportunities for income and flexibility.

According to estimates, more than 45% of the US workforce is at some form of independence. Over the past several years, layoffs in the private sector have been commonplace. Employees in tech, financial services, and other sectors have been undergoing restructuring for some time and have begun to pivot away from the traditional corporate role into solopreneurship and other entrepreneurial pursuits.

Step One: Assess Your Situation and Emotions

Start with self-reflection. It’s the first step to regaining control after a layoff. Many of the layoffs have come without warning. Many individuals rush into job searches without processing their emotional responses, mainly because of the need to find anything that can quickly replace some of their lost income. Understanding personal reactions helps in making clearer decisions about future paths. Emotions such as anger or disappointment, if left unchecked, can cloud judgment during interviews or networking events.

Professional assistance from counselors or coaches can facilitate this introspection, offering guidance through a turbulent period. Putting thoughts on paper, whether in a journal or digital diary, clarifies priorities and concerns. This exercise forms a foundation, ensuring that your next moves align with your personal values and long-term aspirations.

Financial evaluation is a vital part of this initial assessment. Reviewing monthly expenses and possible savings reveals the true extent of urgency. Those who track spending patterns gain insights into areas where cuts may reduce pressure. A thorough budget analysis also highlights potential income streams, including freelance work or part-time roles.

Confidence improves when individuals possess a concrete overview of their monetary outlook. This transparency allows for calmer decisions regarding housing, healthcare, and other essentials. Small steps like trimming recurring subscriptions or renegotiating payment plans help maintain financial stability. Ultimately, clarity during this phase lays a strong groundwork for recovery.

Step Two: Explore Traditional Job Opportunities

Exploring traditional employment avenues remains essential, even when layoffs paint a bleak picture. While Federal agencies continue to downsize, state and local governments are seizing on opportunities to close vacancies. States such as Maryland have implemented programs to assist downsized federal employees in locating new jobs. Keeping an updated resume emphasizes recent accomplishments, making candidates more marketable. Networking with former colleagues or friends in government roles often leads to insider information on unadvertised vacancies.

Skilled professionals can also pursue private sector positions linked to government work, such as consulting or contracting. Online platforms such as LinkedIn are convenient for job searches, but offline connections remain invaluable. Strategically selecting roles that match experience and aspirations heightens the probability of long-term success. Each effort matters.

Attending industry conferences or seminars also fosters valuable connections with hiring managers. Some organizations prefer recruiting through professional networks and references rather than mass postings. This approach underscores the importance of maintaining active communication with former supervisors and colleagues.

Traditional job-search strategies are still valid when combined with a proactive mindset and resourceful tactics. Relocating for a new position might be intimidating, but it opens up a range of possibilities. Flexibility and determination often set successful job seekers apart from those who struggle to find roles.

Regions Most Impacted by DOGE Layoffs

Step Three: Embrace Entrepreneurial Ventures

Launching a business can be an empowering solution for laid-off workers seeking fresh opportunities. The freedom to shape your schedule and services appeals to those craving autonomy. Government employees frequently gain specialized knowledge, which can be repurposed into consulting or advisory gigs. A well-researched business plan ensures realistic projections and manageable startup costs.

Online marketplaces offer accessible avenues for products or services, removing barriers faced by traditional storefronts. Entrepreneurship carries risks, but careful preparation and strategic thinking reduce potential pitfalls. Staying adaptable helps business owners navigate market shifts, ensuring their offerings remain relevant. Confidence often emerges once early successes appear.

Selecting a viable market niche is essential for new entrepreneurs emerging from government roles. Identifying gaps in services or unmet customer needs can guide product ideas. Former public servants might excel in fields like grant writing, policy research, or community outreach consulting. These areas benefit from firsthand knowledge of how institutions operate.

As you embark on any new entrepreneurial ventures, having the right tools is key. These can include a legal business entity, business address, and proper employment and vendor agreements, to name a few.

Building an initial clientele may begin with former colleagues or community groups who trust your expertise. Strong branding and transparent communication help establish credibility, especially when transitioning from public service to private enterprise. Additionally, affordable lead generation solutions may help boost your sales pipeline. By starting small and refining the approach, entrepreneurs gather feedback and strengthen their business models.

List of Ideas to Start a Business

1. Micro SaaS (plugins, chatbots, mobile apps, etc.)
2. Solo Bookkeeper
3. Business Consultant
4. Life/Career Coach
5. Health Coach
6. Financial Advisor
7. Real Estate Broker
8. Personal Chef
9. Content Creator
10. Personal Concierge
11. Personal Trainer
12. Virtual Assistant
13. Interior Decorator
14. Modeling
15. Party / Wedding Planner
16. Pet Sitting
17. Photographer
18. E-Commerce(Shopify/Amazon)
19. Landscaping

Step Four: Strengthen Professional Networks

Networking underpins career advancement, whether you seek traditional roles or entrepreneurial projects. Former coworkers, supervisors, and professional acquaintances may offer referrals or collaborate on ventures. Genuine engagement often matters more than casting a wide net, so focusing on meaningful interactions is wise. LinkedIn groups and industry forums enable remote professionals to stay connected with relevant discussions.

Organizing small meetups fosters a sense of community while exchanging job leads or business tips. Alumni associations also present opportunities for reconnection, especially if your institution has a strong government relations program. A supportive network adds confidence and can accelerate post-layoff recovery outcomes significantly.

Leaders within your field can become mentors who guide your transition and identify valuable prospects. Reaching out with sincere questions and respect for their time reflects well on your initiative. Mentors often provide honest feedback about skill gaps or overlooked opportunities. Maintaining a two-way relationship, where you also share insights, enriches the conversation.

Networking events facilitate introductions, but consistent follow-up sustains these connections. Social media platforms, particularly professional sites, let you showcase projects and thought leadership. Communication that highlights your adaptability and eagerness to grow fosters trust. Over time, these relationships form a reliable support network for new endeavors.

Step Five: Develop a Long-Term Plan

Short-term actions can stabilize finances, yet a comprehensive vision ensures lasting success. Setting clear goals, such as acquiring new certifications or expanding a business, defines your trajectory. The job landscape can shift quickly, so staying informed about industry developments is pivotal. Flexibility in your plan keeps you open to unexpected opportunities, whether in government roles or private endeavors.

Some individuals benefit from formal career coaching, which refines objectives and measures progress. A deliberate approach to skills development, combined with ongoing self-assessment, builds confidence over time. This purposeful direction makes it easier to adapt to economic changes and emerging trends.

Creating milestones helps you track growth and celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Quarterly or monthly benchmarks offer a framework for adjusting strategies when results fall short. This proactive mindset builds resilience, preventing discouragement and self-doubt.

Long-term planning extends beyond career goals, encompassing personal wellness and financial security. Adequate retirement contributions, health coverage, and emergency funds reduce vulnerability in unstable job markets. Overcoming a layoff involves more than simply finding the next paycheck. It’s about envisioning a future aligned with deeper values, allowing individuals to forge paths toward sustained fulfillment.

Rise of Worker Independence and Solopreneurship

A growing number of professionals are choosing self-reliance over traditional employer-employee relationships. Technological advancements have made it easier for skilled individuals to operate as freelancers or independent contractors. This shift toward solopreneurship often appeals to those seeking greater control over their work.

People displaced by government layoffs may find opportunities in fields like digital marketing, online education, or specialized consulting. Platforms that connect clients with remote experts are flourishing, offering ample possibilities. This movement reflects a broader cultural change, prioritizing autonomy and flexibility. While self-employment lacks guaranteed benefits, many accept this trade-off for the freedom to shape their futures boldly.

Small Business and Solopreneurship Ideas

Many laid-off workers consider launching small ventures that align with their personal passions. Digital platforms allow these entrepreneurs to reach global audiences without massive budgets. Independent consulting remains a top option, leveraging past government experience in fields like regulatory compliance or policy analysis. E-commerce businesses selling handmade products, print-on-demand merchandise, or curated items also thrive online. Virtual administrative services are in demand, with clients looking for remote support to handle scheduling and data entry. Content creation, including blogging or podcasting, can showcase expertise and generate revenue. Tutoring and online education using LMS solutions unlock opportunities for those adept at sharing specialized skills actively.

Pursuing a Path to Independence

In recent years, more professionals have chosen to forgo salaried positions altogether. This approach demands resourcefulness, especially when building client bases from scratch. Initially, a modest income may mean working multiple gigs to cover essential costs. However, the potential rewards include personal fulfillment and a sense of ownership over one’s career direction. Access to online marketplaces, digital banking solutions, and global freelancing platforms lowers barriers to entry. Regularly honing your skills keeps you competitive and in demand. Though the journey involves trial and error, the outcome often justifies the effort. With consistent effort, worker independence can become a viable, rewarding reality.

Moving Forward with Confidence and Resilience

Finally, despite all the brouhaha about DOGE, it does reflect a broader global theme of the efficiency of AI and its ability to remake the global workforce in both the public and private sectors. Agentic AI is creating a new AI worker class of civil servants. As AI transforms the global workforce, collateral damage will occur. Ultimately, recovering from DOGE layoffs in the Federal Government requires a multifaceted strategy. Affected workers can find resilience through emotional awareness, skill-building, and supportive community networks.

Short-term actions like budgeting and relationship-building stabilize immediate challenges while fostering long-term growth. Meanwhile, exploring alternative career paths opens possibilities ranging from local government roles to private consulting. Entrepreneurial ventures, whether online or locally based, provide opportunities for workers to utilize their specialized skills. Surviving the fallout requires a deliberate plan, strengthened by consistent milestones, which serves as a roadmap for steady progress.

Carefully nurturing professional networks enriches both job searches and business development efforts. Emerging trends toward solopreneurship empower those who crave autonomy and meaningful work structures. Each individual’s journey may differ, but readiness to pivot fosters adaptability and optimism. When workers align their strengths with current market demands, the aftermath of layoffs becomes an opportunity for reinvention and independence. Above all, resilience and creativity pave the way toward a fulfilling and secure future.