Laid off? Time to remember who you are!

Hello Passion Seekers,

I've heard so many layoff stories in recent weeks, I've lost count. There is uncertainty for so many right now, and I know that it can be a difficult time.

I want to help you change the way you think about this crossroads you may find yourself at.

Before I begin, know that I've experienced two layoffs in my career and I know that they're about as fun as a root canal on your birthday 😥

My first was when I was 26, barely 9 months into my new life in the US. I'd left everything behind to chase my advertising career dreams, and BAM! Layoff number one hit me like a ton of bricks.

(A few months before the layoffs, one of the agency founders announced a wage cut and joked about buying us Ramen noodles, seeing as we wouldn't have money to eat. (I know, right? The concept of compassionate leadership was clearly lost on this guy.)

That moment was a real eye-opener. It taught me to be careful about who I trust, and I learned that while a layoff feels like a defeat, it's often the start of a FIGHT.

Layoffs can take all of the air from your sails. You can experience massive self doubt, guilt and shame. It's tempting to panic (especially if you have mouths to feed) but please remember: 

If you are experiencing a layoff...

…it's giving you the opportunity to step into the ring.

I know you may not feel like it today, but trust me, you now have the chance to reshape your days by doing MORE of what you love.

That could mean finding a role that weaves in skills you've been longing to learn, or gives you more fulfillment.

Or, maybe you'll decide that your job will be a job, and you'll instead protect your personal space to pursue the activity that you can't stop thinking about doing.

So, if you're feeling lost, confused or down, I want you to stand up straight, look at yourself in the mirror and know you have this covered.

Here are three beliefs that helped me after a layoff:

1. Refuse to be ruled by shame.

Layoffs can make us feel ashamed or guilty. Our identities are challenged and the change can rock our stability and faith in people. This can make you feel that you should be putting others before yourself. Nonsense! This is exactly the time to put yourself first. Taking time to reflect, plan or heal is not being selfish; it's being strategic. You are the best investment you have!

2. Layoff time is a gift – use it!

A layoff may mean you suddenly have plenty of time on your hands. Use it to get clear on how you want to feel more in life! What word sums that up for you? How do you MISS feeling?? Make a list of those words or feelings, and see where they lead you.

3. Your Passions are your North Star.

Here's a quick exercise: Close your eyes (well, finish reading this first, ha!) and imagine how you'd feel if you did more work that lit you up. What word comes to mind? How would you describe that feeling? Hold onto that – it's your North Star in this journey.

Need some inspiration?

Take a page from Astrid Benedetto's book. She re-built her career into a DEI leader following her layoff at Target. You can hear her full story on my podcast, Passion Chats. (Shameless plug, I know, but it's good stuff!)

Remember, your passion isn't a luxury – it's your secret weapon in this wild job market. It will make you stand out in a sea of resumes and light up during interviews like you've got your own personal spotlight.

Throughout my own career transitions, I've held onto this mantra: "Remember who you are." It's my reminder to trust myself and my strength, even during the toughest times.

So, are you ready to remember who you are and fight for what you love?

 Remember, you've got this. And more importantly, Passion Collective has got you!

Now, go out there and show your layoff who's boss!

Laura

Founder, Passion Collective