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.

Michelle Britton

After fourteen years with an engaging, mission-based organization, I was part of a long string of people who were demoted or let go, as part of a patriarchal (corporate) take-over by a new board. Although I could see it coming, it was an absolute blow the day it happened to me. I said “goodbye” to so many beautiful colleagues and friends at this place where I was privileged to work. However, it was self-advocacy that allowed me to see that this new line-up of “leadership” did not recognize or care about professional expertise, relational skills with people, or institutional knowledge, and they weren’t going to. That realization helped me push past the doubts and low self-esteem that rose up. I also was liberated by the idea that it wasn’t personal! That freed me from thinking I had some control over what was happening. It was a fresh start. I have moved on and now give myself credit for every success, and accept the loss or mistake with a sense of self-esteem and peace – it’s the price of living on your own terms and, for me, I’m finding great satisfaction in this new chapter. I began a mission-based, performing arts organization called, Lionwoman Productions TX (for Texas). I produced our first stage production in November, 2024 – the Texas premiere of the British comedy, Playhouse Creatures, by April De Angelis, about the first women “allowed” to work on the English stage in 1660’s London. It was extremely well received and I couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful group of artists to collaborate with. I’m planning next season. Check it out! www.lionwomanproductionstx.com. Read more>>

TaSheena Braxton

The first layoff came when I was 8.5 months pregnant with my fourth child and transitioning into life as a single mom. It was a devastating blow to my ego and confidence. I had poured 15 years of my life into that job—I had grown up there. It was the only professional home I had ever known. And suddenly, it was gone. Read more>>

 Vishesh Sharma

The first time I was laid off was in 2002 right after the twin towers fell. I was laid off again on 2004. Then again in 2008 from a Pan-Asian network. I loved working for the network. I was surrounded by incredible colleagues, and the experience was fulfilling. Unfortunately, the economic downturn and some poor business decisions led to the network shutting down, leaving many of us without jobs. At first, I was nervous and upset—it took about a week or ten days to process everything. But then, I refocused, picked myself up, and started job hunting. The market was tough, but I was fortunate to land a role at an online social media company. That, too, eventually led to another layoff, but each experience taught me resilience and I adapted to the circumstances. Instead of feeling lost, I got myself back on my feet and started again. I have grown up with the idea that everything happens for our greater good even when we don’t see it. Read more>>

CLAUDIA MARQUEZ

Being laid off is one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through. It shakes your self-esteem, your ego, and your confidence all at once. In my case, it was a long, bittersweet process. I had to watch people I had worked with for over 13 years be let go one by one. I felt grateful to still have a job, but at the same time, I was losing my team, people who had become like family. Every day felt uncertain, and we never knew when it would be our turn. Read more>>

Caitriona Drexler

This is a very relevant question for me because I got laid off from my corporate day job in early March. I had worked at this company for 15 years and didn’t see it coming. This job was my very first after graduating college and I spent these last 15 years climbing up a difficult career ladder. But I did. I was successful and became a valuable asset to the company. At the end of the day, I was only seen as having the highest salary in my rank within the department I worked for and that was the reason I was laid off. I’m still trying to move past this surprising change in my life. But one of the things I’ve found to be most important in all of this, is having a support system. My friends and family have done nothing but support me, offering me help wherever I might need it and the motivation to find a better job and keep going. The same can be said for being an indie author where it can feel very isolating. All the indie authors I’ve befriended have been so supportive and helpful. Any goal is achievable when you have the support of friends behind you. Read more>>

Nan McKernon

I filed for bankruptcy following the advice of a financial planner after a divorce left me saddled with exorbitant debts. I would never get back on my feet, let alone get ahead as a single mother in graduate school hoping to earn financial security in college academia. I felt immense guilt, particularly for the smaller companies that would be impacted by this legal maneuver that would grant me a blank slate from my muddy financial past. I received hateful communication from several people accusing me of shirking adult responsibilities and calling me ‘a deadbeat’. Rebuilding an honorable life in following financial destitution is not for the faint of heart; it takes hard work. Read more>>