This is a post I just read and wanted to share, a true story. I think many can relate to it:
"I was laid off from a job I loved yesterday. It was 10 minutes before picking up my three elementary school children, in fact. Blindsided. Gut punched. Devastated.
As a newly single father, I cherish every moment with my kiddos. However, when my 8 year old asked me why I wasn't more excited to see her, I knew then and there I needed to be resilient. So, I smiled, hugged her close, and we did our routine. Cheer practice, parent teacher night, dinner and homework. All the while, I felt every lingering self doubt about my abilities imaginable deep in my gut. But I had to be resilient. After I tucked them in, I laid out their clothes, made their lunches, and checked on them one more time, I finally let it all sink in. I was unemployed.
I really wanted to wallow. Feel sorry for myself. But there is no time for that. I continue to teach my kids (both at home and at work), that it's defeat that really defines us. That grit, and yes resiliency can determine what happens next. So I made some calls. Reached back out to recruiters. Talked to old friends. Essentially, figure out the next steps for my family. Because at the end of the day, I can't talk about forging forward unless I'm willing to do the same. Eventually, I will share with my kids about this night. That it wasn't about suppressing emotion, or muting my feelings. It was about finding my inner resolve to push through even when I didn't want to.
I don't know what my future will lead. There will be time to mope later. Have a drink. But for now, I will hunt hard for my next role. I will be tenacious. I will be fearless. I will be resilient.
I hope you will too.
(true story, a post Tony Teshara on LinkedIn)