She Strengthens

Losing My Job Was the Wake-Up Call I Needed

Getting fired can be a devastating experience, especially when it’s due to not being a good fit for the role. I know firsthand how it feels. After six years of working at an entertainment distribution company in New York City, I was let go. The reason? I didn’t have the same level of enthusiasm as my colleagues. It was a harsh reality check, but one that ultimately led to a transformation in my life.

A Dream Job That Wasn’t Quite Right

I had always known that I didn’t quite fit in at my job. While my coworkers were passionate about the projects we worked on, I just went through the motions. The company offered great perks, decent pay, and a fun atmosphere, but I never felt truly invested in my work. Over the years, I coasted along, not putting in the effort required to succeed. I felt guilty, wondering why I couldn’t muster the same excitement as my colleagues.

The Day Everything Changed

During a coffee meeting with my boss, he told me that I would be let go at the end of the quarter. I had suspected it was coming, but hearing the words still hurt. I felt exposed, vulnerable, and panicked. My immediate thoughts were: “Will my family be disappointed in me?”, “Am I even good at anything?”, and “I’m a total fraud.”

A Silver Lining

However, my company offered me a generous severance package, which included 16 weeks of pay. It was a financial cushion that allowed me to take a breather and reassess my life. I also gained freedom from the soul-sucking commute that had drained my energy for years. The time off gave me the opportunity to focus on my physical and emotional well-being, and to explore new opportunities that aligned with my passions.

Finding My Footing

Getting fired forced me to confront my insecurities and limitations. I realized that I didn’t have to be defined by my job. I started to see that being let go didn’t mean I was a failure; it meant I had the chance to find something better. The small wins of applying for jobs, having phone interviews, and discussing new opportunities with recruiters boosted my confidence. I eventually landed a new job at a company that is literally five minutes away from my apartment, pays better, and aligns with my interests.

A New Chapter

Getting fired was a wake-up call that I needed. It forced me to re-evaluate my values, interests, and strengths. I learned that I don’t have to be tied to a job that doesn’t fulfill me. I can succeed elsewhere. The experience taught me to have more confidence in myself and to ask the right questions to learn and grow. I’m grateful for the journey, even though it was difficult at times.

A Lesson Learned

Getting fired can be a difficult experience, but it’s not a definition of who we are as individuals. It’s an opportunity to reassess, recharge, and refocus on what truly matters. Remember that everyone who has ever been fired from a job was not destined to a life of permanent unemployment and misery. It’s a chance to find something better, something that aligns with our passions and strengths.