In the rear view mirror

Layoffs are the worst. They rob you of your dignity and eat at your self-worth. But eventually over time, they are a gift.

When I was a victim of layoffs 7 years ago, I felt like I’d joined a club. Layoffs had become a bi-annual tradition both before and after our company’s acquisition.

That morning, I’d watched a dozen cherished coworkers get called to the same glass walled conference rooms.

I had my bags already packed, my computer politely powered down.

After it was my turn, I met my fallen comrades at Old Town Bar around the corner. The 1800s era Flatiron tavern had been a favorite. Our now-former coworkers joined us for one last reverie.

And I breathed a sigh of relief.

I was lucky. I had the luxury of severance and a brand new, lovingly supportive spouse.

I was daunted, certainly.

The months that followed were filled with isolation and crippling self doubt.

But what I didn’t know then:
- This was a new chapter.
- This was my opportunity to reassess.
- This jolted me out of my comfort zone.
- This forced new commitments & paths.
- This was the clean break I didn’t know I’d needed.

The particulars of my journey are different from the many layoffs in today’s headlines.

My heart goes out to every single one experiencing this today. If there’s anything I can do, please reach out.

I can say with certainty that something positive can and will come.

Give yourself time to recover.
Be kind to yourself.
Lean on others.
Fight on.

#layoffs
#support