That Sucked!

Many of you who follow me know that I was laid-off in October of 2015. It is never in anyone's plans for their future, and the saying there are no guarantees for success in any field hit home with me. I was with my company for over 24 years. I was 11 months shy of getting a lifetime discount, an extra day off each year and a $2,500.00 gift card to my company. To say I was shocked that I was one of five hundred people laid-off was an understatement. I came from the generation where I worked hard, gave a lot of up for my career, long hours and even canceled vacations with friends and family to attend corporate meetings. I planned to work 15 more years for this company, however, I have to say it was really starting to put added stress on my family life. Going to work at 7:30 in the morning and staying until 7:30 at night never allowed me time with family and friends.

I had reached my plan for my career. I no longer wanted all of the travel that came with other positions in the company. I was leaving that for the people that did not mind being away from their family and friends. I was in an area of growth! I was learning more about marketing as well growing professionally. I was steadfast on my plan until that October 1. I had not made any ambitious future goals for my life and family.

What I did learn is that my determination to stick in there through the tough times and to weather the storms of doubt did get me from point A to point Z. My new life as an entrepreneur is one that I LOVE! How many of you can say that you LOVE what you do for a career? I am now one of those people you see at lunch laughing and having fun and you are wondering what do they do for living. I drive by my former office often for meetings and I always say out loud, I hope my former team members are doing well and are not as stressed as I used to appear to be. No, not appear to be, as I actually used to be.

The moral of my article is do not be too rigid in your thinking. The best made plans can become undone, so be open and prepared for new possibilities! You have the potential; no one is stopping you. You can/will make your "own luck!"