A few weeks ago, I was laid off from my job. Initially, I was very confused and sad. I liked my job, and I particularly liked the people I worked with. It was a curve ball that I wasn’t ready for (are people ever ready for curve balls?) As the time goes by, however, I have come to terms with it. I am even beginning to look towards the future. I am applying for jobs and looking for something new. I fully realize that while I did enjoy 
my job of 6 years, even better things could be around the corner. I just wish I knew what those things were… but that isn’t how it works! The process is teaching me a lot. Relinquishing control, patience, fortitude, and the support of family and friends has been particularly meaningful.
I guess you could say I am in an exploratory phase. I went to graduate school and studied a very particular thing: library science and archival studies. I could stick with these and be happy. I could also try some other things that I have been curious about and never had the flexibility to do… starting my own business? more extensive writing? community projects? It may be a reasonable time to test the waters and try these things out too.
So, just like my kitchen, I guess you could say *I* am also under renovation right now. The unique thing about my personal renovations is that I cannot sub-contract it out. Gotta DIY. I think that this blog will play an important role in this renovation. I want to write more, and I have this perfect place to do it. I want to take more photographs and do more crafts, and I have a great place to showcase it. Best of all, I have you all to encourage and support – and that is a wonderful gift.
The creativity is starting to flow again, and I am excited to see where this goes!
Oh my gosh, I didn’t know you were laid off! I’m sorry! I hope this ends up being a positive change for you and hope the transition goes smoothly!
Best wishes in finding your new course. I was told the same thing two weeks ago, after spending 4 years studying and working in special education. I grieved the loss, and probably still will for a while but hope there is something exciting for my future. In the mean time, I will learn how to use a circular sock knitting machine.
Sympathy – this happened to me (ish… complex) last summer. In many ways, it turned out very positively, but it’s a hard transition.
best of luck, L! i’m sure everything will work out for the best.
I’m so sorry to hear about the job, Lolly! You seem to have the best possible attitude about it, though. Life can take us in really unexpected directions at times, and I’m excited to see what you end up trying next!
Lolly – *Hugs* and best of luck. It sounds like you have your head in the right place. I wish everyone had such a great attitude. Sending positive thoughts your way.
Your attitude rocks, and I just know you’re going to find amazing new adventures!!
Ugh, that’s a tough blow but it sounds like you’re on the right path. You have the right attitude and I’m sure you have a great support system too. I love your approach too – a DIY project for sure
Believe me Lolly, I know where you’re at! You get a big hug from me and some encouragement — if anybody can find somewhere to put themselves, you’re the one. I know you’ll come up with something awesome and fulfilling!
Exploring all of your options in a supportive place like the blog is so amazing, isn’t it?
SO much LOVE will surround you and people who care about your success will have great ideas to share…we are SO blessed to live in these magical times! Like your kitchen reno, I know the results will be wonderful!
I’m so sorry to hear this, Lauren!! I absolutely hate curve balls, I can only imagine how difficult the conversation with your employers was. I know that you are deserving of every special thing and, more importantly, you will work hard at whatever it is you end up doing now. I wish you luck friend!
Sorry to hear about this turn of events, but you’re right: we are here to cheer you on, no matter your next adventure! Best of luck!
Lauren, I can totally relate. I am slated to be laid off on July 15th. I am scared and hopeful at the same time. Hang in there. We are pulling for you.
Sorry to read about your job situation. You have a great outlook, it seems! Good luck with your job search and take advantage of some extra knitting/crafty time.
What’s that thing about lemons and lemonade? As scary as it may be this may be a very exciting time to re-invent yourself. Of course, not until after you get to have some self indulgent yarn time. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for you!
I look forward to seeing where this turn of events leads you. Best of luck wherever your path leads!
I lost mine a few years ago, and it is unnerving. Based on your attitude, strength, and creative nature I’m sure the future while uncertain will bring great things your way!
Wow…so sorry to hear this. It sounds like you are approaching it all with the right attitude though. I’m looking forward to seeing where this exploratory phase takes you. And you are right, there will be many here to support and encourage you along the way. Good luck!
It is an unnerving feeling, isn’t it? I’m sorry you have to go through it, but your head sounds like it’s in just the right place for a good journey–even if it’s one you hadn’t planned to make. Keeping those fingers crossed!
I can’t wait to see/read where this new phase takes you!
I’m here to provide as much encouragement and support as you want! I’m also offering you my best wishes for a fruitful exploration that gives you the opportunity to discover new gorgeous (inner and outer) landscapes.
{love}
I know this is difficult to go through, but I have to give you a pat on the back because I’m so proud of your outlook. I am certain that with a positive frame of mind, something wonderful will cross paths with you!
Good luck with things, Lolly! I know even better, brighter things are just around the corner!
when life closes a door it opens a window! I am excited to see what you’re going to do!!
I have been out of work for a while now (4 months) and I’m feeling and learning many of the same things. It has been hard for me, but I’m trying to stay positive, have fun and see what happens. Thanks for sharing, and good luck!
I’m so sorry to hear about this challenge. Like the other commenters, I’m hopeful that the change will lead to bigger and more exciting things for you. Virtual hugs.
Wishing you all the best and that this unexpected (and unpleasant) event is the springboard to a new and better phase of life.
I do not like hearing about librarians getting laid off! I’m sorry that happened but I hope you find something more wonderful right around the corner.
What a great attitude you’ve taken towards unexpected news. I hope you enjoy the opportunities it creates
I was really sad when I heard you got laid off, but I secretly thought “she’s gonna do something great”. I know you will! Whatever path you take next, I hope it’s amazing for you!
You are most definitely not alone. I too am going through the process of being laid off but for me its been a 3 month process ending in May. Sounds like you have wonderful family and friends supporting you. Go with the emotions, and if you’re like me, you feel very up and down a lot of the time. Sounds like you’re looking foward to having some breathing space; take the opportunity of a ‘mini-retirement’ and discover what you want to do with the next few years. I look forward to reading about the future x
I took redundancy in December and it has made a world of difference. I started two businesses and I’m enjoying both – one is more related to my degree (computer science) but the other is related to my creative side (knitted beaded jewellery and other jewellery). It’s slowly starting to come together and I am really enjoying myself. It was a good decision after a period of really trying to work out what to do next – a great chance.
i had no idea! but then again, i’ve been completely internet mia for the past month and a half. you are so talented, l. you will land on your feet and find a position that will make you much happier. xo
Lauren, you’re awesome. Sometimes we all need an initially unwelcome jolt to get us to the next stage in life. I’m still working on mine…
I’m so sorry to hear about your job, but I do agree that this is the perfect time to explore yourself and find out what you truly want. I did the same thing after a divorce, and found that though the process was very difficult, it made me a stronger person and more aware of what I wanted in life. I think this experience will allow you to do the same thing. Good luck to you in whatever you decide to do!
Oh no! That’s completely lacking in fun.
However, I am certain that if anyone can find a new and marvelous place for their life to go, it’s you! I look forward to your next adventures.
I am sorry to hear about this “curveball!” Good for you for exploring all the silver linings your cloud might have. I look forward to seeing which new directions you decide to explore!
I am sorry to hear about your job. Good luck in exploring and in finding your path!
I have been laid off twice in my career (and I’m an HR professional) so I’ve had a little experience. I can honestly say that it was the scariest/best time of my life. Both times I landed in something that was the perfect next step. there will be lots of ups and downs during the transition. Someone said to me the first time: things work out for the best in the end; if it’s not the best, it’s probably not the end yet.
Lean on your friends and do all the things that have been rolling around in your head (If I ever had time, I’d…). I went fishing with my uncles, who are gone now. It’s a great memory.
I’m very sorry that you lost your job, but at the same time I’m absolutely confident you will find an even better one..
I know you will overcome this challenge. You are so talented, and I know you will find something great in this next chapter of your professional life!
To badly misquote Shakespeare (or maybe Tom Stoppard….): Every exit is an entrance somewhere else.
That’s the motto I’ve lived by for the last 6 or so years…Corny? But it works for me. Good luck luck and wishes. But #1 really is having a positive outlook on any and everything you try out.
You have so many talents and such a great attitude — I know something wonderful will come out of this opportunity! Thanks for trusting us all with your news, I hope you’re feeling the good vibes and positive energy being sent your way. Can’t wait to see where your adventure leads and hoping it all falls into place for you just when you are ready.
Oh, I am so sorry to hear it. I can recall being laid off once many years ago and how awful I felt. I can say that for me it really did turn out to be a good thing. It took me in directions that I never would have imagined and eventually led to the career I’m in now (librarian too). Good luck. I hope that it works out as well for you as it did for me.
So sorry to hear this news, Lolly, but what a wonderful attitude you have about it! Your positive outlook, creativity, and enthusiasm are inspiring to me, and are some of the biggest reasons that I love reading your blog. I’m sure these qualities will serve you well in whatever direction you go. Best wishes!
I didn’t know you got laid off! Bummer but at the same time, it’s a great opportunity to try different things. Your attitude is awesome and there are great things in store for you!
hey girlie, i didn’t know about your situation. sorry to hear it! but i’m glad you’re looking at it in a positive way and making the most of your situation. good luck with everything. i hope you find something new that you love! xoxo
I was laid off a couple of years ago, and you are handling this way better than I did! Looking upon it as a time for self-DIY is a great attitude- I wish I could have done that.
Good luck! And, apparently, with sufficient time, most people say that being laid off was a good thing to happen to them!
What a refreshing perspective, during what I’m sure is a difficult time, that this is a chance to change direction or refocus and to create, create, create. I love chances to recreate myself. Thanks for sharing, and I wish you the best.
A big thing to come to terms with but I’m sure you will use it as a great new start for yourself in whatever way comes to be the right thing for you. Love your perspective.