And just like that
It was April 26, 2023.
I was two days into my extended medical leave. I logged into my work laptop one last time to download some HR forms before fully disconnecting. I had been avoiding this moment, not wanting to be reminded of the past 8 months filled with stress, anxiety, and a toxic work environment. But that morning, I forced myself to log in and get it done.
I quickly downloaded the forms I needed, and then, as I sat there staring at my screen, I debated whether or not to check my work email. I had already tied up all loose ends the week before—transitioned my projects, briefed my manager, made sure everything was in order—there was no reason to check. But despite all logic, I was compelled to open my inbox.
I clicked through a few emails—team updates, product launches—nothing of real importance. Then, at 9:01 AM, I heard the familiar “ding” of an incoming message. To my surprise, it was from the senior executive of HR for the company. I clicked it, and read the first line: “Today, we are taking the very difficult step of reducing additional roles across several of our businesses. Unfortunately, your role has been eliminated.”
And just like that, I was unemployed.
Losing a job, especially when you’ve defined yourself by your role and profession, can be one of the most disorienting experiences. In that moment, I was no longer Terri the hard worker, no longer the employee. I was just… me. And suddenly, I didn’t know who “me” was anymore.
For anyone who’s experienced the shock of a job loss—or is going through layoffs right now—you know the emotional roller coaster that follows. The confusion, the vulnerability, the sense of being exposed. It’s hard not to feel like you’ve lost a part of yourself. If you’re facing this right now, know you’re not alone.
But here’s the thing: There was light at the end of the tunnel.
Sometimes, losing something—especially something you’ve attached so much of your identity to—can be the catalyst for change, the forcing function to stop and reflect on what you really want.
During my time off, I made the conscious decision to step out of my comfort zone. I pushed myself to try new things, many of which were uncomfortable, unfamiliar, and outside the realm of my normal. I took three months of improv classes, I signed up for weekly aerial silks classes, co-lead a career development workshop for young professionals (with over 30 attendees), I even took the state and did at talk on mentorship at Modern Healthcare Women Leader’s conference.
I rediscovered with my love for reading, completing over 25 books in a span of six months – something I could never find the time and energy for when I was working full-time. My prior average? One book every six months.
Beyond the activities and things I did, I reconnected with my priorities: getting clear on my values, finding my passions, and embracing the things that made me feel alive. I made being intentional about my support network a priority, investing in and strengthening the relationships that truly mattered and reconnecting with old friends and colleagues. Throughout my experiences, I found community and connection, something I hadn’t realized I was missing.
Most importantly, I began to realize how much I had been letting life happen to me, instead of taking control and driving my own path.
It wasn’t easy. It was messy. It was raw. But most of all, it was transformative.
Losing my job was hard—painful, even—but it forced me to stop, breathe, and reflect on what I wanted next. It’s easy to get caught up in the grind and lose sight of who you are and what you truly want from life. But sometimes, life has a way of redirecting you when you’re heading down the wrong path.
If you’re going through a similar journey—whether it’s a job loss, burnout, or a career shift—give yourself grace. Use this time to explore, reconnect with what drives you, and get clear on your goals. You might be surprised by the transformation that follows.
I’d love to hear from you. Have you experienced a major career shift, job loss, or an unexpected change in life direction? How did you manage the transition? What did you learn about yourself? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’m excited to hear your stories.
READY TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP TO CHANGE?
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