The Highs and Woes of Being Laid Off

Being laid off can be one of the most traumatic events of a person's career. When I was laid off for the first time in June, I knew for a fact that I was going to get a job in a matter of weeks. Maybe even days. But, that wasn't the case. Roughly 40% of all professionals are laid off at least once in their careers. (Flynn) That's why I chose to share this article as it may help you find solace in the fact that you're not alone.

The Woes

Why Me?

In the first hour after the dreaded call, I felt numb as so many thoughts buzzed in my mind. Though I had a slight feeling my number might be called, the “No, not me” thoughts were also in full effect. After that, the question “Actually, why me?!” rushed through my heart, and a smog of disbelief and self-punitive behavior clouded my mind for a few days. In the beginning, I felt a roller coaster of emotions. So, if you're experiencing the feelings described and more, it will pass. Though the question "Why me" still pops into my head every now and then, I can say that I'm over it. In fact, I think I'm stronger because of that experience.

Nobody loves Me

On a lighter note when I think about being laid off one of the first things that comes to mind is the song by Ja Rule on one of his last albums called Passion where he harmonizes the words in the hook in his baritone voice “Nobody Loves Me, sometimes the world can seem so cold…”

Also, the classic Kermit the Frog meme is how I would sum up the feeling.?The next problem to crack would be the quest to replace my job's income.

How am I Going to Find a Job in This Economy??

The word setback might be an understatement for those who have been laid off within the past three years. When I arrived in New York City in April 2016, I landed on a Sunday, had an interview with a great company on Monday, and then received an offer letter by Wednesday of that week. Based on my previous experiences, I truly thought it would be somewhat easy for me to get a job in the field of my choice. But it's definitely not easy. After about a week of applying for jobs on LinkedIn, I had three interview prospects scheduled. I'm grateful to have had any traction at all, but it seems like actually finding a gig via a job board is an uphill battle. At this stage of my life and career, I think it's tough for recruiters to pinpoint my specific skill sets. I believe I have a well-rounded set of skills that make me an impactful employee. I am a diligent person who leaders trust to represent their companies for critical internal and external projects.?

Though the rejection letters have been distributed in abundance as of late, I experienced one of the greatest alcoves of aptitude tests I have seen with Baires Dev . They have aptitude tests that seem to test for people of many different skills such as Software Development, Project Management, Sales, and much more. In order to get out of the inevitable rut, I also chose to think about the bright side of the experience of being laid off.

The Highs

Gratitude

Problems tend to tease out the intricacies of gratitude. I'm very lucky and grateful in many ways, but the experience I had at my previous employer was top-tier. Also, the team members, leaders, and customers I worked with through all of my jobs have afforded me huge opportunities for growth that I can never forget. I am comforted by the fact that I take pride in producing high-quality work. But, I wouldn't have a desire to produce solid work if I didn't work with such gifted people. That's why gratitude has been one of the high notes of my journey. The simple act of taking 20 seconds to take a deep breath of gratitude throughout the day helps me appreciate this challenging moment for what it is. The gratitude that warms my heart helps propel me forward to greater versions of myself.

Self-exploration & Wellness

Self-exploration has been one of the most enriching aspects of my life based on the fact that I’ve been focusing on improving my relationship with myself by improving my overall level of health and wellness.?The Oura Ring , Smile Direct Club , and an updated skincare routine are just a few things I’ve used to increase my health and wellness thus far. That helps me bring the best version of myself to my friends, family, and future employers.

Quality Time

Spending quality time virtually and in person with family and friends is a highlight for sure. I’ve gotten a chance to have some great conversations with my family without the rushed sense of urgency to accomplish the next task that permeates through the phone during a typical, hectic day. This time has also forced me to appreciate my life not for what I have, but for whom I have in it.

Stack those Skills

I took another inventory of my skills and realized that there are plenty of areas of opportunity. That's why I’ve taken time to get a bit better with cinematography and design via YouTube University , and improving my Sales skills with CourseCareers . For my aspiring Tech pros, CourseCareers has programs for Customer Success, UX Design, and many others for a fraction of the price of most boot camps while providing support in finding a gig. There are many bootcamps available such as Full Stack Academy , General Assembly , Brainstation , and others. I'm actually in the process of applying to General Assembly for their Software Engineering track. Though commercial real estate development and business acquisitions are core to my dream path, I believe I could deliver value to others at scale through a job in Software Engineering. I think my future engineering skills paired with marketing and other business skills only raise my business acumen, and I hope there are leaders out there who value a person with such a broad range of skills.

I do understand that it's tough for a leader to pinpoint a person's "thing" if they have more than one core skill. But, I truly believe that there are Liam Neeson-style leaders out there who are looking for the rare individual...Someone with a very particular set of skills .

I may not make every shot, but when I’m 90 I want to enjoy watching my highlight reel.

Focusing on the Legendary Journey

I used to hate the phrase “Don’t worry about the things you can’t change” for some reason. It’s like when asking a person to calm down, the exact opposite happens. That’s me sometimes. But, now is a great time for me to continue to curate and narrate my journey. I’m aiming to enjoy the parts of my journey that make me smile when I think about the story. I may not make every shot, but when I’m 90 I want to enjoy watching my highlight reel.

I’ve been able to visualize and create new realities for myself before, and have a strong sense of belief that I can do it again. Within the next few months, I expect to do some things that I’m really excited about, and I want to take you with me along the journey. The time off has allowed me to hone my vision for myself, and it’s of course a huge reason why you’re reading this.?

My Network?

The phrase “my network” denotes a special flavor of ick for some. But, during the last three months, the people in my network have been incredibly supportive and helpful by pouring into my cup in so many different ways. From quick DMs of moral support to calls and in-person conversations about what’s in store for the next step, my squad has supported me in ways I didn’t know they would. I’m lucky and eternally grateful to everyone who is in my corner. It’s common to not want to reach out to ask people for anything but to ask for help and actually receive it in a warm and loving way reminds me that people want to help me win, which inspires me to desire to make them proud when my milestone moments occur.

Let's Keep Pushing

I wish I knew how to navigate this time perfectly, but in summation, I am extremely grateful, and it could be much worse. To my newly laid-off friends, this time will pass, and you are highly capable. If you or someone you know needs help with digital marketing services, please let me know! ??