Why your layoff feels like a breakup
If you think about it – our work relationships often mirror romantic ones.
There’s the first meeting (ahem, interview), where you buzz with excitement and hope for your shared future.
Then comes the honeymoon phase, where your teammates invite you to lunch and share informal tips (like how to code your expense report so you get paid on time).
After a while, there’s what I call the “dishes in the sink phase” – you start to see that your job isn’t perfect, but you accept the quirks, mutter under your breath occasionally, and move on.
And sometimes, there’s a breakup. You might have an inkling that layoffs are coming, or that the company’s future isn’t so bright.
Other times, you just get “dumped.”
I know this because I’ve lived it (having been “dumped” by my employer back in 2017).
That’s when I joined what I now affectionately call “The Layoff Club.”
It was a tumultuous time, filled with grief and uncertainty.
AND – it was also one of my most creative and inspired times. Why?
Because I figured out how to navigate the messiness of my layoff, and come out on the other side with a totally fresh perspective and game plan.
A lot of us are navigating uncertainty at work these days:
Getting laid off
Worrying about future RIFs
Feeling unsure about the long-term prospects at our organizations
Stressing about other people’s layoffs and whether we’re next.
If I could write you a love letter to help you navigate this uncertain time – it would be this:
After the Layoff: Regroup, Reflect and Redesign Your Future → My newest on-demand workshop at Life Design School!
In this 51-minute video workshop, you’ll learn:
The connection between your thoughts, your actions and your results – and why this link matters as you make your plans post-layoff
How to embrace the story of your layoff and discern your unique competitive advantage in today’s job market.
You’ll also complete “My Personal Inventory,” a set of 6 powerful and creative reflection questions – designed by me during my own layoff – that will unlock new insights about who you are and the unique contribution you’re ready to make in the world.
Part layoff pep-talk, part inspiring roadmap – “After the Layoff” is the kickstart you need to jump into action after getting laid off.
Try this Out
Whether you’ve recently joined “The Layoff Club” – or you’re just preparing for ‘What If?’ –
This workshop will guide you to shift your perspective, identify your unique value proposition in the market, and build out your roadmap for your next steps.
Just like romantic relationships, layoffs leave battle scars.
I've got my own scars to prove it.
And now that I'm on the other side, I can tell you – it was the start of my best professional and personal chapter yet.
I can't wait to help you get there, too.
What to Do Next
A couple of fun announcements:
If you’re in the Richmond, VA area – join me this Monday, September 8 for the in-person version of my signature workshop, “From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust.” Learn more and sign up here.
Can’t make it to Richmond? Watch it on-demand here.
I’m also speaking at the NAWBO Women’s Empowerment Summit on October 3rd. My topic? “A Love Letter to Risk Taking.” So juicy! Will I see you there?
Onward,
