There’s nothing like being laid off from your job–as I was a few weeks ago–to throw you off schedule!
Yes, I’m no longer formally employed, no longer the editor of a medical magazine. Without putting too fine a point on it, it was all about the bottom line, which really is the story of everything. We all have to determine which of our ventures are most profitable and which of our losses to cut.
So I’m a problem solver. In part, that’s what they used to pay me to do. So I consulted with family and friends who have been where I am now, and of course, I Googled my situation. (What would we do without Google?) I got lots of different responses. But the one I liked best was the on that went along with my instinct, and that was not to jump into a hasty decision regarding what to do next.
Probably the reactive thing to do would be to try to find a job doing something similar to what I was doing. But for me, I see an opportunity to try something different.
So for me that would be to become a full-time freelance writer/editor and and go hard at being an indie author, at least until my limited funds indicate that it’s time to stop trying to live a pipe dream and get a real job! Any leads or advice on freelancing are welcome.
I haven’t blogged much lately while I’ve been rethinking, reorganizing, and reinventing my life. I didn’t think I was one of those people who defined herself by her employment but since being laid off I have had a slight crisis of identity. In addition, I go in and out of being excited about my prospects and being scared to death that I’m going to fall flat on my face. Luckily, I rallied round enough to realize that I had to write at least one post for September!
Such is life. I’m glad I have one to talk about.
© Sweepy Jean and Sweepy Jean Explores the (Webby) World, 2012
Sweepy Jean Explores the (Webby) World 
Comments on: "Life Reorganization" (46)
You know I wish you all the luck right now as you move forward.
I do, Stu. Thanks so much!
Sorry to hear about that Adriene, but as you say it’s an opportunity. The hectic pace of our lives don’t leave us much time to think about how we are living it. Now you have that time, and I hope you can find your way to better things.
Beautifully said, Rolando. You are so right; hopefully this will be a chance to do what I love more on my own terms.
Ouch. Wow. The doubly whammy of seizing the day! Great decision to keep writing as a top priority–and somehow the connections to publishing will appear. I’ll keep my eyes open for you, as I have been for me. Gosh. It seems like everything wonderful is volunteer these days, but some of it is paid–so I think 3rd Sunday Blog Carnival also shows off your organizing skills. Good luck, Adriene. Don’t forget to call on some of us for readers, etc.
I really appreciate your sentiments, Susan. I think seize the day is for the naive and those old enough to know that life is wasted unless you do what makes you happy. I think I’m in both categories. 😉
May every blessing be yours in your new endeavor, Adriene! Prayers for every success!
You are so kind, Martha. Thank you! ❤
Ouch.
Here’s hoping you nothing but success in your further endeavors. If there is any way I could be of any help, let me know!
Good Luck
Much appreciated, Hajra, thank you! xox
Best of luck, Adriene! It sounds like you’ve thought this out really well. I’m glad you’re going to follow your heart and give the freelance life a try. You’re going to be great at it!
I hope so, Chris! Thanks for the well wishes!
Awh, I’m sorry to hear this. I also wonder if it might be “the great opportunity” presenting itself. I wish you blessings and light on your journey. If I can help, let me know. I’ve been freelancing a while now and co-authored a book. Time to get serious and grow my business. A friend of mine is designing my website and she’s awesome so let me know if you need a web designer! Blessings. xoxoxo
Thanks so much, Pamela! ❤
I’ll keep a good thought for your.. I realize that even though it is happening a lot that doesn’t make it any easier. Listen to your inner voice it will lead you !!
Good Luck !!
Much appreciated, Jim! I think you’re right and I’m learning more and more to trust my inner voice.
Hello Jean, I am sorry to hear this news. You can see already from the comments that we hope you not only find employment soon, but doing something you will enjoy.
Best regards, James
Thanks so much, James. I appreciate your and everyone’s kind support! 🙂
carpe diem, Adriene!
Indeed, Stacy, I will! 🙂
Yeah, not making hasty choices is a good idea. I’m sorry about your job but it’s just another stage in life you’ll be starting 🙂
Thanks so much, Rhi! I’m excited! ❤
How to maek bad news, good news – rip up the old routine and find yourself a new one that feeds your heart, mind, and soul. Course, feeding the belly is also handy but it looks like you have the skills for that 🙂 Go girl, make your life what you want it to be.
Thanks so much, Suzanne! Life really is what we make it.
That’s not ancient Celtic, it’s ‘make’ when you don’t attend to spell-check.
I’m so sorry! Rethinking, reorganizing, and reinventing is definitely time well spent. I’m sure there’s something on the horizon for you. To the next adventure…
Thanks so much, Marie! xox
Adriene, I’m really sorry that you have to go through something like this, but I love how you’re turning this around for yourself. Sometimes, I wonder if life gives us these opportunities on purpose… these opportunities to reflect and reinvent ourselves. Can’t wait to hear what’s in store for you. =) And I’ll send you any leads I hear about!
I agree, Samantha. They say it’s not the event that defines you but how you handle it! ❤
I’m so sorry to hear about the layoff — but it’s great that you’re taking the time to think about what you truly want. I’m impressed. It’s all too easy to get on the merry-go-round and just keep going with what you’re familiar with. (I’m a case in point, unfortunately.) Best wishes in whatever you do!
Thank, Lisa. There’s nothing wrong with familiarity, and timing is everything. There are many paths to living our dreams! xox
This is such a positive outlook, Adriene. And though I know this path is fraught with fears, as you have realized and pointed out, this is also very ripe with growth and exciting possibilities. I think it’s normal that a huge part of our identities rely on what we do. Work, after all, occupies a huge chunk of our days. But maybe we can also start defining ourselves not in terms of our ‘positions’ or job descriptions but by what we do in essence. For instance, labels such as ‘thinker’, or ‘analyzer’ or ‘communicator’ etc might be more interesting. Oh well, just a thought and now I’m babbling. Anyway, good luck and I’m sure you’ll do just fine 🙂
You are wise as ever, Joy, and not babbling at ll!. When we break it down, it amazing to realize the practical and marketable skill we have. I so appreciate the encouragement!
Dear Sweepy Jean,
‘HE’ will surely see you through this by showing you a way. ‘HE’ has already given you talent for that!! My best wishes, sweet sister!!
-Portia
God bless you, Portia. Thank you. <3<3
Adriene, I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your job but happy that you are seeing this situation as an opportunity to try something new. Something tells me that you will find the way to make things work. I wish you luck, my friend. Keep the faith! 🙂
Thanks, Bella! I’m taking it one step at a time. ❤
I am sorry to hear this, Adriene. Having said this, I stopped being employed over a year ago and, frankly, despite the initial shock, I am now very happy. My business is doing well and I can finally do things I like (such as blogging or spending more time with my children). I am glad that you have something in mind. Keep looking for writing opportunities and keep us posted. Virtual hugs to you. You might also considered sponsored posts once in a while and Google ads (or equivalent). It doesn’t pay much but it is better than nothing I suppose.
Thanks, Muriel! It does my heart good to hear a success story. There is life after traditional employment! Thanks for the advice. I’ll look into these avenues. xox
My partner is going through this also, and I keep saying to him not to rush into things and to take time to smell the roses, not fall into the same traps, focus on his strengths and talents, and pursue something that he will be happier in…
Good luck!
So sorry your partner is going through this as well, but yes, this is an opportunity to pursue even greater happiness!
Sorry to hear that. Go with your instincts…this perhaps is your golden opportunity to do what do best and love most. yes, its scary, many things in life are, but what’s life without risks, right? good luck with making your choices. I like the sound of becoming an indie author.
Hi, Sukanya! Thanks so much for stopping by and for your encouraging words! xox
Just read this blog, and based on your original post, I think you have the right idea. This is a great chance to go for your dream and give it your all, and without having that ‘security’ blanket, you will really have to go hard, or go home. Best of luck to you. Saw your blog on a RT from Samantha Bangayan on twitter
You’re absolutely right, Kandie. As they say, necessity is the mother of invention! Thanks so much. I’m glad you stopped by. 🙂
Hi Adriene, I know well what you mean by a crisis of identity after job loss. I hope that by now you have got over the initial shock. I like the idea of you working as a full-time writer/editor and using your talent and eye for detail to help other writers, and give you back that sense of self that you (we) suffer after job loss.
I let my career define me and when I was laid off after eighteen years, I felt beaten down, a failure. I made a series of poor decisions that led to loss of home, money, business, status, boyfriend, belongings, and health.
However, two great things happened as a result: I started to write again and I learned that job loss can open up opportunities for a new career path and to follow a lifelong dream. This is a subject I deal with in my book, “Don’t Hang Up!” (to be published March 2013) I can honestly say that job loss was probably the best thing that could happen to me. Just didn’t know it at the time.