So here's the thing: I had an excellent career. I was moving forward. I had projects that I'd spearheaded implemented and active worldwide! I was THE go to person- I trained just about everyone. I never took vacations, put off family planning- didn't even really go to the doctor or workout all so I could work overtime, everyday and show my DEDICATION!
They just created a new position in the company with my name on it: Director of Marketing.
Yes, that position with the corner office was for ME- Marketing Director! I could taste the victory!
On March 19, upon arriving at work, placing my jacket on the back of my office door, and booting up my computer, I was asked to come to my manager's office. The Director of Human Resources was there. YES! This is the day I've been waiting for! The position is mine.
"You know we've created a Director of Marketing position, right?" she said. For someone about to promote me, this is the gloomiest, most monotone person I'd ever met...
"Yes, I've heard all about it- and I have some excellent ideas!" I answered with a bright smile and enthusiasm reminiscent of child on Christmas morning...
"Well, that's why you are in here today. We've decided to eliminate your position. You can apply to be the Director of Marketing, but we will need your badge, passwords, and you'll have to leave once you get your personal items. Come down and see me for your exit interview and if you want severance."
Come Again????
Now, at this point, I couldn't quite remove the smile off my face. I didn't quite know how to react. It just seemed that she had either made a mistake or had lost her mind. Or maybe I worked too hard. Was there something I did wrong? Was there someone out there who was better (um, no, that's not it). Maybe these people are just crazy... clearly, I've made money for the company and I'm an asset. What kind of warped situation is this. The whole thing was surreal. My heart was beating hard... the butterflies in my stomach were creating a wind storm. She reached over and grabbed a box of tissues. But- for some reason, that pageant, Christmas morning smirk wouldn't move. It stayed there- planted... sort of like the Joker...
Then my manager spoke, "What am I going to do without you?"
What the hell kind of question is that when your position is eliminated?
That's when the marketing professional in me kicked in, "Well, you don't have to figure that out. I'm sure I will be consulting on some projects. Call me if you need the help."
And with that, my Marketing Consultancy was born.
There is no doubt about it: losing your job unexpectedly SUCKS! That is: if you are not ready to relish the realization of what you've been given. In your unemployment, you've literally traded one commodity- money for the most valuable commodity- time.
So, you're unemployed. You have bills to pay, children to raise, food to put on the table. And guess what: you had to do those things- anyway, even while you were employed. So instead of turning to worry and sleepless nights, head to plan B, C, D, Etc.
But in the meantime, deal with right now.
First, feel. Experience your feelings. Are you in greif? Are you devestated? Are you sad? Angry? Depressed? Happy? Feel it for a moment. Acknowledge your feelings- know that whatever emotional state you are in (unless suicidal) is alright for the moment. Then make a conscious decision to feel the way you WANT to feel. Feel your freedom. Feel the opportunity of renewal... Know that you will land on your feet again. And know that just like you got that job, there is another one waiting for you.
Second, let go of whatever situation made you unemployed and caring what they are doing at your old place of business now. You'll find that people you were working with will call you and go through to help you with the "woe is me" saga. Don't engage it and don't be part of the work pool gossip! Don't allow people to feel sorry for you. Instead, turn your friends into resources. Tell your friends the help that you need. Tell them not to worry about you- ask them to help you make the next step. Unless they are telling you about their personal experience, ask them not to tell you detail for detail about what people are doing now. You'll feel better once you can think clearly without actively allowing yourself to get angry with what's going on at your old place of business. Turn the page for the new chapter in your book.
Third, pick your route and plan your directions. What do you want to do next? Return to work? Look for a job while searching for your ultimate career? Consulting? Maybe start your own business.... or a family. Start a plan. Write down what success looks like for you. Is it more money than you made before? Maybe it's more work/life balance. Whatever it is, become inspired to be the person you want to be. Once you've chosen your path, plan a route to meet your success. The road will be much easier to navigate once you have the directions.
So the moral of the story is: being unemployed in not a death sentence. Yes, you may lose some of the material possessions, your savings, etc. And, I'll admit, that doesn't feel good and it's not necessarily something anyone looks forward to. But sitting around worrying about what you will lose or changes that must be made is not going to help anything either. Instead, stay positive and inspired that this is a life change that will make you better. Surround yourself with the people who are willing to help and utilize your new found time to create the life you've been longing for.
