A Layoff Can Be A Good Career Move

I am not trying to be trite. A layoff can be a serious financial blow. I know, I have been laid off before. But it can also be a career enhancer.

Many of us have dreams – owning a business, different career track, etc. But we continue on in a job that is not part of that dream. We let inertia or fear keep us from taking that next step.

For me, I wanted out of a dead end administrative job but couldn’t bring myself to leave – the pay was okay, but there were no opportunities, and the people were difficult to work with. But I kept plugging away. I just couldn’t see my way out.

Then I got laid off. After the shock, anger, fear – I picked myself up and was able to pursue a different career, one that I have loved. It took a layoff for me to really think about changes in my life – I needed that kick in the pants at that time.

I know others that this has happened to, and it also helped them – not in the short run, but over time. A friend of mine was laid off about a year after me – he then pursued his dream of owning his own business. My father (when I was in college) was laid off – he left the newspaper business and ended up doing financial work for a charity – and he loved it. A late career change that never would have happened if it wasn’t for the push of a layoff.

Again, there are serious economic consequences to being laid off. But there are also great opportunities. When a layoff happens, don’t let fear capture you. Seize the day and pursue your dream.