05/19/2009
Sometimes down, but never out
It’s been a tough year for Aunt B. I was laid off in February just as the reality of the recession began to spin on the 24-hour news cycle. Barack Obama was just sworn in and the soft whisper of a page turning in history put happy feet on my heart.
It was a Tuesday, the California weather was classic, showing off a bright sun against blue sky and a cool breeze. I was called into a meeting as soon as I arrived at work and told my job was terminated. As a single-mom and sole support of my family it felt like a sucker punch. I didn’t see it coming, it caught me square on the chin and down I went for the count.
With my face against the mat, I remember something similar to what Michelle Obama told the graduating class of UC Merced, “Think of the people who paved the way for you, and those who are counting on you to pave the way for them. Never let setbacks or fear dictate the course of your life.” So to that I add for those that are experiencing joblessness:
- Know that when change comes, it is never comfortable or easy.
- It is normal to feel sad, angry and overwhelmed. Take time to process those feelings and let the dust settle. Talk to a trusted friend, your beloved, or a member of the clergy.
- Tie up the loose ends with your former employer, read the paperwork and take the time to understand what happens with your unemployment, healthcare and retirement benefits.
- Tell everyone you know that you are no longer employed. Reconnect to old friends, use the social networking sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, church groups, friends and neighbors. Tell them exactly what you are looking for. Be specific. People like to help, let them.
- This is a chance to rediscover your passion and purpose! Some days will be better than others. Know that your legs might feel wobbly and you might feel unsteady, as you stand up. You might have been down for the count, but you’re not out. No way.
- Aunt B
Being laid off has put a new meaning to the words “I am jobless or I was let go.” True, it takes a toll on you and your family, but there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. Most of the time, change is good. You never know why you were the chosen one, why you were told that your job was being terminated, or why, with all the work that still needed to be done, that you were the one that was let go. As you quote Michelle Obama, Our first lady, “Think of the people who paved the way for you, and those who are counting on you to pave the way for them. Never let setbacks or fear dictate the course of your life.” In closing “Change Is Good” Blessings to you!
I’m probably a little older than you so I what I’m saying about being laid off comes from experience. I had what was considered a good, stable job back in the 1970’s. I worked at a steel mill and for a young man, I was making very good money. Everything was great until the day the foreman called a meeting and said the second and third shifts were being shut down and only those with the most seniority would keep their jobs, which didn’t include me.
To make a long story short, I know about being laid off. I know that it hurts. But I know something else, too. It’s not the end of the world. During the time I was laid off, I went back to school and got my degree. That was the best thing that ever happened to me. It took me four years but I got another job and never looked back.
The economy will get better and employers will start hiring again. You have to go into survival mode and above all, don’t get down on yourself. Stay positive and you will survive and come out ahead.