One of the most beautiful characteristics about America is the ability we have to fall, dust ourselves off and try again. Layoffs or firings may seem unsurmountable at first, but we’ve seen over and over again how getting laid off can often be the first step towards a significantly more fulfilling future. We’ve shared some incredible stories below.

Paul Herman

The truth is, I’ve been fired (or conveniently laid off) from almost every job I’ve ever had. For some, that might sound like a setback or proof of a poor work ethic. For me, it was the best thing that could have happened. Each time I lost a job, my situation improved. Not only did I land on my feet, but I always moved upwards. Looking back, it’s clear that being fired was never about failure. It was about being nudged toward my true calling: entrepreneurship. Read more>>

Lizamarie Mohammed

This is a timely question for me. I started my journey in law school with a passion for reproductive health policy, aiming to make an impact either internationally or domestically. For over a decade, I worked in reproductive and maternal health policy, from established think tanks to startups pushing boundaries and engaging unexpected stakeholders. It was the dream—until it wasn’t. Read more>>

Antoinette Walker

Losing a job that I dedicated years of hard work and passion to was not easy. After spending four and a half years in a role I believed would be my long-term career, being let go was a difficult transition. However, I saw it as an opportunity for growth, reflection, and refocusing on what truly excites me professionally. I leaned on my faith, maintained a positive mindset, and sought support from my family and friends. Baking desserts also became a creative and therapeutic outlet that kept me grounded. Through this experience, I’ve become more resilient and adaptable, ready to embrace new opportunities with a fresh perspective. Read more>>

Colton Weatherston

I lost my dream job in 2003, so I went back to school to build up my skills. I wasn’t sure what was next, but I got a scholarship to get a Master’s degree, so I went for it. Turns out there were new “dream jobs” out there afterall. Read more>>

Victoria Ortiz

I got laid off from my first corporate job in 2020 after graduating college in 2019. I ended up becoming a successful entrepreneur afterwards, founding my own haircare brand. All of this happened in the middle of a pandemic after I had to move back to my home country. I had to reinvent myself and create my own source of income in the middle of chaos. Read more>>