I was laid off. The writing was on the wall—slow workdays, corporate merger rumors, and leadership’s favorite phrase, “cutting costs.” I saw it coming, but still, when the news finally landed, it felt… surreal. I’ve never been part of a mass layoff before.
But here’s the surprising part: I’m okay. Sure, I have moments of anxiety about what’s next, but I’ve always believed that when one door closes, another (better) one opens. Whenever something seemingly bad has happened in my life, it’s led me to something even greater. This will be no different.
So, instead of panicking, I’m treating this as a career break—a chance to reset, reflect, and focus on what truly matters. Here’s what I’m doing next:
Taking Time to Reset
Gabby Bernstein once said, “Your energy has far more power than you can even imagine.” And I believe it. When we feel our best, we attract better things. So, my first priority? Taking care of myself.
Running Again (After 4 Years!)
I laced up my sneakers and hit the pavement for the first time in four years—and wow, I forgot how much I love running. They say the runner’s high lasts anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, but honestly? I’ve felt it for days. Running not only helps me shake off stress, but it also inspires other healthy habits. Right now, I’m running 2-3 miles every few days, and it feels like a little gift to myself.
Prioritizing Sleep
I’ve always been big on sleep, but now I’m making it a true priority. No more scrolling in bed—when I feel tired, I sleep. Every night, I slather on my 8 Sheep Organics Sleepy Body Lotion (a magnesium-rich lifesaver I discovered during pregnancy) and drift off into deep, restorative sleep. Want to try it? Use Discount Code: JENNIFER29352 for 10% off.
Reading & Writing More
Since I have extra time, I’m diving into books I never finished—right now, I’m loving Wild Mind by Natalie Goldberg! I’m also journaling about my running journey and this whole unexpected career transition. Both reading and writing have always been therapeutic for me, and I’m grateful for the space to indulge.
Spending More Time Outdoors
Luckily, my layoff was well-timed with perfect weather. Aside from running, I’m taking my kids on local adventures—visiting farms, picking fresh fruit, and just soaking up the sun. Never underestimate the magic of fresh air and Vitamin D.
Networking & Exploring What’s Next
I’m taking an exploratory approach to my job search. Instead of aggressively applying to 100+ jobs a day (which, honestly, sounds exhausting), I’m focusing on quality over quantity. Here’s my plan:
Networking Chats
I’m reconnecting with former colleagues, mentors, and industry friends. Fun fact: Two of the jobs I’ve held—including the one I was just laid off from—came from casual conversations. You never know where a simple check-in might lead! Plus, it just feels good to have a support system.
Taking Interviews (Even When I’m Unsure)
A few companies have reached out to me directly. Even if a role doesn’t seem like the perfect fit, I’m taking the calls. I haven’t interviewed in six years, so this is great practice—and who knows? Something unexpected might click.
Seeking Mentorship & Career Clarity
I’ve been scheduling one-on-one calls with mentors and industry leaders, each with a specific topic to discuss. These conversations have helped me refine my career direction and even consider new paths I hadn’t thought about before.
Creating Structure in My Days
Right now, I’m designing a loosely structured routine—enough to keep me productive, but flexible enough to actually enjoy this break.
Mornings: Exercise, running errands, and getting outdoors
Afternoons: Networking calls, online courses, working on side hustles, etc.
Evenings: Spending time with my kids, watching a show, or digging into a book.
Daily To-Do List (Because Old Habits Die Hard)
Even though I’m not formally working, I still make a daily to-do list. I write everything down in a notebook—meetings, errands, small wins—and cross things off as I go. It keeps me grounded and helps me use my time intentionally.
Leaning Into Side Hustles
With a little extra time, I’m diving into some side hustles. My blog isn’t exactly paying the bills (yet!), but it does bring in some revenue. Plus, my family and I run two small businesses—Cabana Cultures and Little Palm Coconut Water. I’m taking this opportunity to give them some extra love.
Final Thoughts: I Was Laid Off, But I’m Feeling Optimistic
So, yes—I was laid off. And it’s weird. But it’s also a chance for a fresh start. Instead of dwelling on uncertainty, I’m leaning into healthy habits, exploring new opportunities, and making space for things that truly bring me joy.
And whenever I feel stressed about the future? I go for a run. I remind myself that rejection is just redirection. And I trust that the universe has a bigger, better plan for me.
If you’ve been laid off, too, here’s my (unsolicited) advice: Take care of yourself first. You never know—it might just be the reset you didn’t know you needed.
Have you ever been laid off? How did you handle it? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments.
