Have you ever been fired? A woman once asked me this question in almost an accusatory manner. I answered, "No, I haven't." She then said, "Well, you should at some point in your life so that you can understand how it feels." This wasn't from a disgruntled former employee but from someone who loved the woman I had to let go earlier that day.
In my corporate banking role, there were many times I had to lay off people, and it was something that is always hard to do and I could always expect some misdirected anger at me as I was the local person carrying out the task and it is hard to understand why your beloved co-worker would be asked to leave.
That conversation lingered in my mind for a long time, influencing how I approached my job. Despite holding a high position, a part of me always harbored the fear that I'd eventually face the same fate. The thought felt like a looming curse.
From an employer's perspective, letting someone go is never easy. Most of the time, it's due to underperformance or organizational restructuring, regardless of the individual's competence. But have you ever experienced being fired or had to fire someone yourself? It's a tough day all around.
Years later, I realized that even though I'd never been fired, I'd faced significant adversity and challenging times. What got me through these periods was persistence, determination, and taking one step at a time. If you're grappling with job loss or career difficulties, keep in mind that these challenges can propel you to greater heights. Abrupt planned or unplanned changes often signal the beginning of a new season in life.
During tough times, our inner dialogue can be incredibly harsh. I urge you to pause and assess whether your thoughts are helping you grow or keeping you stuck in guilt or shame. If they're not serving your growth, it's time to let them go. Here are some strategies to help you release those negative thoughts:
Journaling:
Write down your feelings. Identify what triggers your negative emotions and explore ways to reframe these thoughts. For instance, instead of thinking, "I should have been more organized, I should have let someone know when I needed help," reframe it to, "I am proud I handled my situation with integrity. I'll find an employer who appreciates my skills and allows me to thrive."
Music:
Music can be a powerful tool to shift negative energy. Listen to your favorite songs or genres and let the emotions flow through you. Personally, I find solace in gospel music during tough times.
Movement:
Physical activity can help dissipate negative feelings. Go for a walk, run, or take an exercise class. The act of moving your body can work wonders for your emotional state.
Talking:
Talking with someone who can see things from an outside perspective, can help you. Also someone who loves you and can provide support can bring a sense of comfort as well.
As a corporate employee, I once believed that running my own company would eliminate my worries. How wrong I was! The concerns as an entrepreneur are different but no less significant. Life's challenges are meant to spur growth, not to restrain and hold us back.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, recognize it as part of a growth phase. It might feel chaotic, but it also signals that you're on the brink of significant personal development. Embrace this exciting journey.
Much success to you on your path of growth!
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