Losing your job is painful and unfortunately the current economic conditions have led to many layoffs and firings in companies large and small. However, we’ve learned though thousands of interviews over the years that job loss is one of the most common catalysts for massive life improvement. Below, we’ve shared stories and perspectives from some very successful members of the community around how they dealt with job loss.
Chef Rome
A layoff can take the wind out of you. When it happened to me, I had a moment where I could’ve felt embarrassed, defeated, or stuck. But instead, it forced me to look inward and ask, “What can I build for myself that no one can take away?” Three days later, Rome’s Kitchen was born. I didn’t have everything figured out. Read More>>
Soukaina Benmbarek
In 2023, I was working in sales at ResMed Inc. It was a great company—truly employee-centric—but despite hitting and often exceeding my numbers, I found myself under intense stress from constant micromanagement. At the same time, my personal life was stretched thin with young kids, a demanding work schedule, and a marriage that needed attention and care. I was running on empty. Read More>>
Lake Summar
When the pandemic hit, the nonprofit performing arts organization I worked for was forced to shut its doors almost overnight. Like so many people in the arts, I didn’t just lose a job—I lost a creative community, a sense of stability, and a career I had built with intention. It was disorienting and scary, especially in an industry already known for uncertainty. Read More>>
Gina and Bobby
I took my power back and filed a whistleblower lawsuit, for wrongful termination. I stood up to a giant company, that others were too intimidated to. I always keep myself busy. I’m able to use my creativity on our YouTube channel. We are able to travel more. Doing our best to stop and smell the flowers. Having faith that God will provide. Read More>>
Carla Haskins
I got fired one week after my 50th birthday. That can be devastating for anyone, but especially for women. It was during the pandemic, a scary time worldwide, and this just added to the stress, pressure, and panic. In the midst of recovering from that devastation, I somehow found the courage to reach for something different and real for me. Read More>>
Andrea Andree
I am in the early stages of divorce, so I won’t say that I’ve overcome it yet. But as I’m thinking this through, it’s also not something I feel I need to overcome but rather, something to celebrate. Saying “I’m not happy” and putting what I deserve and desire above everyone else’s opinions was a huge step for me, especially with young kids involved. Read More>>
