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.
Jennifer Levasseur
Slowly. I was fired from one of my previous positions with no warning. I had never been written up but I knew I was unhappy. It came very swiftly – definitely felt myself watching the whole thing happen from outside my body. They told me they would not contest me receiving unemployment – that helped me not to feel rushed. But still, it was so jarring that I had to get out of the area and went about an hour away to stay with my friend and distance myself from the whole situation. I was nauseous for three days – I had never not been able to eat before. Read more>>
Shakira Mclain
A couple of years ago, I went through a rough patch when I was fired from my job. I never got a clear explanation for why, but I figured it was because the new manager just didn’t like me. After about two weeks of unemployment, I managed to land another job, thanks to an old co-worker’s help. However, within a month, the owners informed me that I “didn’t fit the vibe or aesthetic” of the shop. Shortly after, my hours were cut, and I found myself out of a job again. Read more>>
Tassanee Croell
Overcoming a layoff or getting fired can be a challenging experience, but it can also be a blessing in disguise. I believe that everything happens for a reason. Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together. Because there are better things waiting for us. I am always thankful for everyone that exists in my life. Especially my boss who laid me off; if they didn’t do that, I wouldn’t have come to America. I never thought I would move to another country, especially by myself. I was able to move to the United States and since that day, my life has changed forever. A layoff or getting fired, it’s just a bad day not an indicator of a bad life. So, say ‘Yes!’ to new adventures and let life surprise you because it’s good to embrace change. Read more>>
Rebecca Dawson
My husband was fired after working for the same company for 22 years. It wasn’t anything he did. It was a corporate downsizing. Over 500 people lost their jobs in our small community that day, and 300 more over the next few weeks. We had recently relocated and this felt like a really large blow! Even though it wasn’t me who lost the job, it greatly impacted our family. My husband was the “breadwinner” if you will. He provided us with our primary source of income. When he told me all I could repeatedly say was, “ What?” It just didn’t same sense. We’d given up so much in our move, and this was completely unexpected. His job was a source of security for us. Read more>>
