Featured on ABC11: What to Do When Job Security Is at Risk
As featured in a recent ABC11 news segment, we had the opportunity to share important financial guidance for individuals affected by the potential government shutdown, especially federal employees and professionals in higher-income roles.
These periods of uncertainty are stressful, and unfortunately, we’ve seen many people compound the stress by making a key mistake: continuing to spend as if nothing has changed.
“Hope is not a plan.”
That was one of the key points I made during the interview. Too often, people assume they’ll quickly secure another job at the same income level — so they maintain their existing lifestyle, habits, and spending. But what happens if that role doesn’t come?
They begin to dip into savings. Then into retirement accounts. They delay adjustments until they’re forced into financial decisions from a place of panic or pressure. By then, they’ve already compromised their financial future.
The Hard Truth About Lifestyle Inertia
Lifestyle inertia, or thethe tendency to keep spending at previous levels even when income is reduced, is one of the most damaging forces we see in financial planning. And it's especially dangerous during a furlough, reduction in force, or prolonged hiring freeze.
We’ve worked with federal employees and high-income earners who kept spending in the hopes that their next job would replace the one they lost. But recovery is much harder when savings are already depleted.
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re in a role that could be impacted, or if you simply feel unsure about your job security, here are a few steps you can take immediately:
1. Reevaluate Your Budget
Even a temporary reduction in discretionary spending can buy you time and flexibility. Protect your liquidity now, and you’ll have more choices later.
2. Prioritize Cash Flow Over Lifestyle
This isn’t about panic - it’s about preserving control. Spend strategically and avoid dipping into long-term assets unless absolutely necessary.
3. Don’t Wait for a Perfect Job Offer
It’s okay to take a step sideways (or down) temporarily if it protects your financial stability. Many people recover faster when they act quickly and decisively.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
At Pendleton Financial, we work closely with federal employees and professionals navigating job loss, income disruptions, and long-term planning under uncertainty.
We believe the earlier you act, the better your outcome.
If you or someone you care about is in this situation, the time to talk is now. We offer free, confidential consultations to help you understand your options and make a plan, before a temporary challenge turns into a lasting setback.
📅 Schedule a conversation here:
https://calendly.com/teampendletonfinancial/30min
📺 Watch the ABC11 segment here:
https://abc11.com/post/government-shutdown-financial-tips-employees-consumers-federal-lawmakers-try-work-deal/17951429/