What once was a reason for despair has turned into a status symbol. (Probably more true if you’re single, rather than married.) Let’s be honest, losing your job is a traumatic experience.
It’s almost daily that we hear of another person being laid off from his or her job. Just last week three of my friends were let go from their jobs; the reason, company down-sizing to stay afloat during these tumultuous economic times.
Regardless of what may or may not have been communicated during the exit interviews, I’m willing to bet that the reasoning behind being let go had very little, if nothing, to do with my friends’ work ethic. It may have just been the “un-luck” of the draw.
People take losing their jobs personally. And who wouldn’t begin to question his or her work ethic? No one likes failure (being “let go” is a biggie!), but when it happens — because inevitably it will — it’s important to remember success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts — a statement often misattributed to Sir Winston Churchill, but still a valid statement.
For whatever the reason you may find yourself, it’s best to refrain from becoming bitter. The old adage, “when life throws you lemons…” is never more applicable then now. Think about the opportunity presented you by being laid off, especially if you are single — arguably the most resilient demographic out there. If you think about it, we really do have an enormous disposable income in comparison to our married counterparts.
You lost your job; is this really “unlucky,” or is it just a blessing in disguise? Personally, it’s just the beginning of a lifelong adventure.
So, now as a single who recently lost your job, what better time do you have for a clear self-evaluation of where you’ve been and where you want to go? Sure, it’s going to require a little bit of a lifestyle change, but you’d be surprised on how little you need to live on. (I’d bet on that, but I’m Mormon.)
“Kickin’ it” on your own isn’t going to be a walk in the park. During the last general conference, Elder Robert D. Hales said: “Each temptation we overcome is to strengthen us, not destroy us. The Lord will never allow us to suffer beyond what we can endure (1 Corinthians 10:13).” I would venture to say that would include the loss of a job as well.
I know you’re going to think I’m crazy, but being laid off may be one of the greatest things that ever happens to you. This is a time for reflection; a time to get away from all the traffic in your mind.
Often, we get lost in the busyness of life. We think “all’s well in Zion” until the rug is pulled out from under us.
I can think of seven friends, all single, who have recently lost their jobs. Most of them are a little nervous about their futures, but each has mentioned that this experience is bringing clarity and more focus for what they really want to achieve. They all have come up with different ways of moving forward with life. A few of them even have mentioned that being laid off has given them a new drive to pursue long-forgotten goals.
Think about this for a second: When was the last time you reflected on your goals and what you wanted to pursue? You know, the ones you used to dream about, saying, “As soon as I have more free time, I’m going to….” If you’re anything like me, it’s been a few years. But, circumstances the way they are now, the proverbial rat race has left you in the dust — remember?
Being laid off is a great time to serve others and network; start making plans for your future. Going back to school is even an option. Call it what you want, but this could be a second chance to create something meaningful in your life. Imagine that; working for a purpose, rather than just working to work.
You’ve got work experience. You’re young and single — no dependents. You can do anything you want. Now is the time to reflect on those dreams; go where your heart really wants to take you. Go to the temple. Seek your Heavenly Father’s guidance; he will direct you.
So, basically what I’m driving at is that everything is going to work out fine if you just “put your shoulder to the wheel” and “push along.” Remember what the Lord told Joseph Smith the Prophet while a prisoner in Liberty Jail: “all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.” (Doctrine & Covenants 122:7)
