Day 62 – Examining My Process

Michelle Poler, author of Hello, Fears, has determined that there are six steps to processes we work through. My challenge tonight is to describe how something I’ve worked through fits the process (if it fits the process). I’m going to talk about my job searching experience.

For anyone just popping in to read the blog for the first time, I was laid off at the beginning of February this year and it took me six months, to the day, to find a job. I feel like the steps below really do describe my journey searching for employment after being at the same workplace for most of my adult life. Let’s break it down.

1.      Discovery – I spent the first two months after I was laid off trying to figure out who I was if I wasn’t my job. It was painful, scary, frustrating, and exhausting. I am grateful for my therapist and for the people who helped keep me busy with meaningful work while I rediscovered that I am not my job. I began to dedicate time to self-improvement by reading more and prioritizing my physical well-being through regular walks.

2.      Denial – During this time, I kept thinking I’d get a call from my previous employer, and they’d be like, “JK Holly, we really can’t do this thing without you, so come on back.” …even though I knew it wasn’t going to happen.

3.      Determination – I finally came to terms with my situation and decided that I was going to pursue jobs that fit within the realm of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work because my passion is helping the underserved and under supported members of our community. I applied for many jobs that fit this description, both locally and nationally. I really wanted to work in my community if possible though because I love where I live and I want to see my community members thrive.

4.      WTF am I doing?! – After applying for job after job after job, getting a handful of interviews - even second interviews - that didn’t lead to an offer, I started to doubt myself and my abilities.

5.      Action – I took proactive steps to enhance my job search journey. I diligently followed up on my job applications to ensure I left no stone unturned in pursuing opportunities. I also had the privilege of engaging in thoughtful conversations with two potential employers who reached out to me within the same twenty-four-hour period, presenting exciting opportunities. After careful consideration, I am pleased with the choice I made and am excited about the path ahead.

6.      Celebrate – Six months to the date of my layoff I got the job offer that led to my current employment. As I look back at the six months, I was unemployed, I see many things to be grateful for and several opportunities that I couldn’t have experienced if I had been working.

Life is interesting and scary and wonderful. I am glad to be on the other side of what was a life altering and traumatic experience. This is my 500 words or less description of a much more complex period of my life. I am sure that I’ll expand on my experience in more detail in a future post but for now I’ll just end it here for tonight.

Stock image provided by Unsplash.