A year in the making

This month a year ago I started a new job after 12 years of working on a bank's website.  This month, this year, I lost my job.  Now I'm unemployed.  And so begins another chapter in my career.

The great thing about losing your job is you then have time to think.  Your thoughts are not distracted by an assignment.  There is no externally imposed deadline keeping your mind from being at ease.  Your phone doesn't ring while you're taking time to spend with your family.  Your phone may not ring at all.

I think that is what I value about being unemployed.  That quiet.  That time.  Time that is mine.

About 9 months after my father passed away I was laid off from a start up I'd been working at for almost three years.  The start up was ending.  I'd worked hard at that job.  I'd changed positions, worked late nights and weekends, and put a lot of myself into the job.  While I was very disappointed that the company wasn't continuing, I was also relieved to have time to think and to rest.  I actually took three months off.  I didn't even look for a job.  Maybe not the best financial strategy, but it was a solid strategy to protect my well being.

During that time I rode my bike a lot.  I worked on my computer still and learned a few things.  I spent time with friends and got more involved with people.  I was calm and took life one day at a time.  When I went back to looking for work I was energized and eager to contribute.   I'd even say that defines my work ethic: eager to contribute.

Are you eager to contribute?  If not, then what are you doing?  Is life not too interesting to just watch from the stands?  Being involved is what gives one value and where we reap the rewards.  There is little value in being unemployed other than reflecting on what you value.   Perhaps knowing what you value is the key to a successful career.