What Bob Dylan Taught Me About...Losing My Job?

During my Digital Media studies, we were tasked with exploring how technology is impacting how we consume art. My project focused on a little known artist called Bob Dylan and his interactive video for "Like a Rolling Stone" - check it out here.

The video is a novel and creative way to engage audiences. What's really cool is it creates an entirely unique experience each time you watch it. The core idea is no two viewings are unique (kinda like careers, am I right?).

The song itself challenges the idea of an easy life, with Dylan saying he wants to "needle" listeners, to get them thinking about what's important and living life on your own terms.

"How does it feel, to be on your own"

Honestly, right after a lay-off it feels pretty shitty. Especially if you've been at a company for a while.

Eventually, though. You regain your own identity. It's no longer wrapped up in corporate swag and laptop stickers. You have time and space away from the chaos.

Perspective is a wonderful thing.

As the wonderful Atta Emami, MBA explained it;

"who you are has nothing to do with what you do. Your job, title, company etc. are all clouds - you are the entire sky."

Armed with that wisdom from Atta, I was able to navigate the next part of regaining control - making a plan.

I won't share my full 30-60-90 day plan, however these are the three things I found most impactful, especially starting out:

1. Taking Care of my Mind and Body: prioritising sleeping well, eating well, getting outside in nature and working out.
2. Intentionally Step Back from Social Media: obvious but effective.
3. Asking for Help: From my family, friends, community or even professionally. The more open you are to help, the more inspired you will be. Trust me.

"When you ain't got nothing, you ain't got nothing to lose"

You can't be stressed and creative at the same time. Loss of control is stressful.

Once you regain control though (see points 1-3 above), you can see the world of opportunity that's out there. Even in perceived hopelessness, there is hope.

That's what I believe Dylan is saying in this song.

And that is my message to anyone reading this today.

You are more than a job title. You have skills and knowledge. There are opportunities out there for you.

• Make a plan.
• Take action daily.
• Change your approach.
• Repeat.

Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.