“It hurt. I realized I put allot of my self worth and identity into my career and job and I felt numb and empty.”
This is me man, I have worked my butt off for my role. I’ve moved my family several times, missed more family things than I’d like to admit all to have that Sr Manager/Director title.
All for nothing it feels like
Wife said I’m not allowed to buy any yo-yos - I said that was cruel and unusual punishment
I haven’t been laid off myself but my partner was laid off twice in 6 months (part of the flood of tech layoffs these past few years). We were fortunately in a secure financial position.
One of the biggest takeaways my partner had from this, which I’ll echo Captrogers on, is not to put too much of your self-worth into your job. Take the same sterile, calculating view of your job as your job will take of you. It’s difficult to do as we’re conditioned to attach ourselves and feel a sense of loyalty to our work but learning to set that boundary more clearly (if you haven’t already) is ultimately healthier.
What’s best for you will depend on your situation, but if you are in a stable situation I’d suggest taking this opportunity to reflect on what you want before pressing into a new job. Don’t rush into another job that you don’t like if you’re in a position to be more selective (that’s a big if I know). My partner took that time after the second instance and much prefers what she does now.
Very sorry to hear this, keep your head up and know that when one door closes, another one always opens…(and no, I did not get that from a fortune cookie 
)
So so sorry to hear. The corporate world seems brutal; it’s just business, after all. But it’s never just business… if you’re a good, hard working employee, it’s neigh impossible to not make your job an extension of who you are, I don’t care how good you are at work life balance.
Stay strong, brother, I’m sure something good will come your way.
It is - I’ve been lucky to never have been on this side of it before - but good lord
I had this happen to me twice in back to back jobs, company was sold, consolidated and downsized and nothing i could do. After the second time i decided to take my career into my own hands and learn a trade. I’ve been a barber now for about 5 years, i rent my space and report to no one (except the wife). I operate fully on appointments so i know my schedule every day and i never made this much $ working for someone else.
Obviously not everyone has the natural skills required to be a barber, but maybe use this uncertain time to reassess your career, life and happiness before moving forwards… i know I’m glad i did.
Ugh, that’s brutal. I don’t think I have any stories or advice that would contribute beyond what’s already been shared by others, but just want to say condolences, and try not to take it personally (which I know is way easier said than done).
And, I’m new here, but the imaginary internet friends here seem like pretty good folk, don’t underestimate the community here as an emotional support system.
A lot of states have their own medical plans, especially for children, and sometimes coverage is free. Look into it! You may meet the requirements while you’re out of work.
Gosh, that sucks, Tyler—I’m real sorry to hear that, man. I don’t have much to say besides what has been said, I just wanted to give you my commiserations. I hope things get better for you soon, I’m sure it will—just keep your chin up, and keep going, but don’t be afraid to feel a little, it’s good for you.
I hope all works out, and remember to appreciate what you have now, because if you look for satisfaction and happiness only in the future—you’ll never find it, 'cause the future never really comes, does it?
Sorry I can’t do a better job comforting you, just know that things will surely work out in the end: if it hasn’t worked out yet, it hasn’t ended. <if that helps at all.
I sure know how to be negative, huh? anyway, we’ll be here for whatever you may need, man.
Yeah… this seems a bit excessive…. I was thinking more like going without food or something. Sorry, funny not funny.
My wife says no YoYo’s even when I’m gainfully employed
That’s awesome for you man!!!
I’m going to, thank you!!!
More comforting than you know my friend!!!
Can you call her for me? Help me out
I am currently logged into Voice Chat in the Boomers Discord if anyone wants to chat.
Dang sorry bro good luck with the search. Ive been laid off twice bc the companies closed and yeah it sucks. Only thing to add is really to place importance ln networking. Reach out to whoever you can.
Also it sounds like youre doing what you can so take solace in that and try to stay positive.
I’ve been reaching out but it just feels so slimy, like hey I know we haven’t talked in two months but got any jobs? Lol
Another way to help is understanding Grief:
Grief is a natural emotional response to loss, characterized by intense sadness, shock, and a range of other feelings.
While the grieving process is not linear or predictable, some common stages have been identified:
Denial: Initially, the person may struggle to accept the reality of the loss.
Anger: Feelings of anger or resentment may arise, often directed at themselves or others.
Bargaining: Individuals may attempt to negotiate with fate or try to find ways to bring back the lost person or situation.
Depression: Intense feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness may emerge.
Acceptance: Eventually, the individual may begin to accept the reality of the loss and find ways to cope and move forward.
To reiterate. Grief is not something you “Get Over”, it is something you “Get Through”. There is also a stage of numbness that can preceed the 5 stages.
Allow yourself to feel the emotions, but dont isolate on them. Focus on the positives to help take the next steps.
