Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Carolyn Coleman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Carolyn, really appreciate you joining us to talk about a really relevant, albeit unfortunate topic – layoffs and getting fired. Can you talk to us about your experience and how you overcame being let go?
I was expecting it, rumors were constant that a layoff was coming. God told me not to listen for it was not going to help. If a conversation started regarding the layoff, I walked away. The word of God tells us obedience is better than sacrifice. When other notice me walking away they inquired as to why I was not apart of the conversation, mt statement was. That can I do about it, what can you all do about it?Administration had someone to call me,. “You need to be in room 375 at 11’o’ clock” I stated I would be in class at that time; she simply repeated her words. I spoke to my instructor because I would have to leave early, “there is talk of a lay off, she was so unconcerned. It was a little comical to me. Talk about ain’t nobody studying you .I kept my appointment, took the news like a champ, asked if I was allowed to collect my personal items , they said yes. Did I mention I was looking cute with my linen outfit on. I headed to the elevators and noticed a man slowly following me, I made eye contact he did not, he stated he would walk me down , no need, I am just fine. I had a peace that only Hod can give. I got in my car and drove to my parents and announced the news. They were shocked. My cousins called for they had heard, encouraged me to keep my head up, things will be alright. I thanked them. Later that evening there were local news coverage at the hospital. They were interviewing my former co-worker. Mom wanted to know if I knew her. Sure we are not only neighbors but friends she works night and I worked evening on the same unit. Later another friend called asking if I had been let ho. Sure I have, I collected my news and my three checks and personal items and left. She told me everyone gathered in the pantry and talked about their present situation and joked that they knew who would be off on the 4th, meaning the 4th of July and they all laughed. I was laughing as well. But have no tegrets about collecting my money and leaving. I had one more year to complete my nursing degree as a registered nurse. My parents were my supporters and encouragers. When you are in that situation where no one was hiring LPNs, You have to rely on your faith. But God. I friend called me telling me she had been laid off from another hospital and if I heard of something, to let her know. I laughed, someone needs to tell us, I am in the same boat. We laughed and became even closer.. I finished TN school on time got hired full time and the rest is history. God is our all in All, He protects and provides.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am also a mentor, and an adjunct clinical instructor, teaching is what I love to do. When you teach you learn..I enjoy writing fiction, I have a five book series regarding the title character Gentry, she is every woman, she and her friends learn to navigate life together. I have started another work of fiction, just finished Co authoring a 2nd and 3 anthology, they both we’re #1 internationally and domestically. I have a podcast titled Gentry’s Journey
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Knowledge: your story is your story, no one can tell it but you. It is never too late to begin. Never stop learning.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents were there for us. Disciplining, molding, ensuring we had what we needed. The support is what all children needs. You take it for granted for it was an expectation.
Contact Info:
- Website: Cpwbookshelf.com
- Instagram: Carolyn_author
- Facebook: Carolyn Coleman
- Linkedin: Carolyn Coleman
- Twitter: Ccpicgreg
Image Credits
Avery Carter
