How can I cope with guilt after terminating an employee?

I recently had to terminate an employee, and I feel really guilty about it. How can I cope with these feelings?

It's completely normal to feel guilt after making such a difficult decision. Acknowledge your feelings and reflect on the reasons for the termination.

But what if I think I could have handled it differently?

It's natural to second-guess your decisions. Consider discussing your feelings with a trusted colleague or mentor to gain perspective.

What if the employee was a friend?

That adds another layer of complexity. It's important to separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities. Focus on the business needs.

How can I ensure I don't make the same mistake in the future?

Reflect on the situation and identify any warning signs you might have missed. Implementing a clear performance management process can help.