RIF’d: Turning the Corner? Not Yet.
Chuck Stephens
Experienced Learning & Communications Leader | Content Strategy | Multimedia Production & Consulting | Expert in Management, Agile Methodologies & Social Media Marketing
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had some incredible conversations with people in my professional network. Their support has been humbling, their advice generous. But a recurring theme keeps popping up: “It’s time to turn the corner.”
I get it. The sentiment is well-meaning—move on, focus on the future, don’t dwell on the RIF experience. But here’s the thing: I’m not one to sweep the brutal truth under the rug, especially when there are so many still living it.
For some, the weight of being RIF’d doesn’t just go away. It lingers in the form of uncertainty, fear, or even resentment. And while I’m doing okay—honestly, I am—I feel a responsibility to stay in this space a little longer. Not for me, but for those who are still struggling to find their footing.
Honesty Over Polishing the Story
There’s a real value in talking about the hard stuff. The anxiety. The grief. The realization that sometimes, corporate environments aren’t designed for humans—they’re built for efficiency. And when you’re no longer seen as “efficient,” the system moves on.
Ignoring that reality doesn’t help anyone. Pretending it’s all good now that I’ve “turned the corner” won’t serve the people still navigating this rocky road.
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What People Need to Know
For those who are still in the trenches of corporate life: know what you’re getting into. Understand that job security isn’t a promise, and take steps to build your parachute before you need it.
For those looking to get out: it’s possible, but it’s not easy. It takes courage, grit, and a willingness to face some hard truths about what you want your life to look like.
So, no, I’m not “turning the corner” just yet. I’m here for the people who are still struggling. I want to keep these conversations real and raw because that’s where the healing starts—and where real change begins.
Let’s keep talking. Let’s keep being honest. And let’s keep helping each other find our way forward.
#RIFd #HonestConversations #CareerTransitions #CorporateLife #HelpingEachOther #OpenToWork