Layoffs Suck

I should know. I’ve been laid off three times in my career.

Yet, hindsight is 20/20.

I was able to change my career path each time with my next move into a company and position that was better than I could have imagined.

Given so many people are facing layoffs these days, I wanted to share some things that looking back I wish someone would have told me.

-Enjoy the time with family and friends.

-Don’t just jump to the first job. Make sure it feels like the right fit.

-Take the trip you’ve always dreamed of — time is a precious resource and you’ve got lots of it.

-Don’t be afraid to reach out to folks in your network and ask for introductions or help. Then when you are working again remember to do the same for others that reach out to you.

-Take time to take care of yourself by working out and eating right.

-Remember the words of the great Chicago WXRT DJ Lin Brehmer “Take nothing for granted. It’s great to be alive.”

Note: I first published this story on my LinkedIn profile.