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Yesterday, I came to the realization that I've not been unemployed EVER in my adult life. I had a job day 1 out of college, and I've been employed ever since. In May, I was laid off after 26 1/2 years. Still, I’m grateful for 26 ½ years – all I’ve learned & relationships built along the way. I am not sure why there is shame attached to a layoff. It's out of my control. I have nothing for which to be ashamed (and neither do you). There are alot of people seeking employment these days who are (were) great employees. How do I know? Because [darn it] I am (was) one of them (awards and recognition back that statement up 💯 ❗ ). For those who are in this boat traveling the unknown waters called #opentowork -- keep your head up. We must be on the lookout for sight of the shore. We can't find the shore if we're sinking or if our head is lowered. For certain, it's unchartered territory for me. Unchartered waters are scary and unpredictable. Yet, I'm fully aware now is not the time to stop rowing. ‘Row’ how you must but #dontquit! My 'rowing' comes in the form of online courses, self-paced learning, and obtaining relevant and necessary certifications. It also comes with an unlimited amount of GRACE and permission to EXHALE (or kick and scream 😜 ). If you’re in the same boat as me, just keep rowing! Raise an OAR with me & High 5 me! 😊 ***Yesssssssssssssssssssssss - that's me in the kayak. This picture perfectly depicts my rowing in the #opentowork waters. 😁 😂 🤣 *** #job #jobless #grateful #unemployment #headupbuttercup #motivated #encourageyourself #whatGodhas4meis4me #notashamed #findwork #operationsmanager #operationsexcellence #salesoperations #businessoperations #pmptraining #salesforcetraining
Well said! Definitely understand the feeling. Keep your Faith File visible! I have watched you row your way through some tough tough waters and you didn't quit. You are a SURVIVOR! You are built for it with your determination to keep it moving. Being without employment can be overwhelming, but by Faith it will not over take you. A new Season is on the horizon and I can't wait to see what is instore. Hold tight my Sista, you got this. Love You. PS. To all the Companies that are looking for a bright light that will help your company keep moving forward, Carletta is it and she will not disappoint you! Please read her profile!!
Love this Carletta and I know you will always keep rowing and growing. Wherever you land next that org will be blessed with one of the best. No doubt!!!
I was laid off after 9 years in May as well and came to the same realization that I had never been unemployed. At times I even held 2 jobs while working toward my degree to try and limit the amount a debt I'd graduate with. I felt equal parts grateful/blessed for that fact as well as completely unprepared to throw myself into the stressful chaos that is searching for the next opportunity. You're attitude and drive is inspiring. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for writing and sharing this. I too always worked but chose to quit a job last year to focus on my own health and well -being after a series of family tragedies and losses. Now I'm back in the job market and sometimes it's a challenge to stay positive and upbeat. I love your image of keeping your head held up to see the shore. I needed that reminder. Thank you!
Carletta, you are all the things stated in your note. From the first time I met you I said, this young lady is special. There is no shame in a layoff, as it appears IBM has gotten down to our best employees. I know you’ll land on your feet. Keep me posted if I can be of help.
Carletta Calahan I’m in the same boat I worked full time through high school and college and was at IBM for 20 years when I was laid off. It is a shock I had no idea it was coming. BUT we will get through this and thrive! Good for you taking time to kayak! Onward and upward from here. Wishing you all the best PM me if you want to chat
Always in your corner. Thankful to see this support for you. I echo what's been said, on both sides, and I'm rowing with you right on to my next, as well. #dontquit #workinginmycalling #GODhasaplan #proudofus
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1yI agree. I've been laid off as a top performer. I don't understand why there is still a stigma and shame associated with job loss. But I love seeing so many people like you moving away from that with public posts like yours here on LinkedIn. It allows this broad community to be able to support you and who knows what opportunities can come from that? So row on, sis. You are rowing right into your next big thing. I'd venture to say you're already living it. Continue to enjoy the journey. I have an extensive network so let me know if there's anything I can do to help. 🙏🏾