When you've been in a "permanent" position with a state agency for 6 years, and your job performance consistently receives a high rating, receiving a layoff notice is quite a surprise. I received a layoff notice about a week ago, and I thought it might be helpful to blog about it.
So far, I have found the big struggle is focused around two recurring things. First, it's hard to shake the idea of personal worth and importance. We all think that we make a difference, even in a bureaucracy. And the truth is, we do make a difference-- every single one of us. There is no single person on the face of the planet that has the skill set and unique abilities that you and I possess. We are truly one-of-a-kind. Beautifully and wonderfully made. That's the truth. But when the notice arrives, the doubts are not far behind. This is a mental, emotional and (at times) spiritual battle that must be won through renewing our minds with truth.
The second thing is a question that so many loving, well-meaning friends and acquaintances ask. You know the question: "So, have you lined up something else?" or "So, what do you want to do?" I truly think this is the question that 90% of Americans in the workforce don't want to answer honestly. And, I guess the best thing about having a job is that only a really close friend will ask that. But, when you get the notice, the question is not far behind.
So, before I answer the question, let me throw it back to you:
Do you know what you want to do?
