Last week, news of the recent layoffs at PayPal hit hard, resonating deeply with the many incredible individuals I know and worked alongside for years. It brought me back to a year ago, almost to the day, when I too found myself on a roller coaster of emotions after almost 23 years with the company.
The ride was a mix of excitement for the new opportunities ahead and fear of the unknown, and after a year, it still is some of the same, as I pursue my Executive, career and life coaching business full time. It was a journey of self-discovery, of realizing that my value isn't tied to a company, role, or title but rooted in who I am and the many roles I play beyond professional labels.
For those experiencing this transition, I offer a few pieces of advice:
Take Time to Reflect:
As your finances and current life circumstances allow, pause for the time and way that works for you and evaluate what truly brings you fulfillment. Use this time to rediscover your passions and envision the next chapter of your journey.
Reach Out and Ask for Help:
It's okay to lean on your network. Reach out to connections, friends, and mentors. Seek guidance and support during this transition. Don't hesitate to ask for help, even when it feels uncomfortable. Ask for what you need and want or you leave it to assumptions and those always fail us and we come up short. Don't leave your great work and next steps to your career to assumptions, ask for it.
Define Your Value Beyond Titles:
Challenge the notion that your value is solely defined by your professional title. Reflect on the roles that make you unique, from being a mentor, friend, parent, partner, board member, coach, or community contributor. Embrace and celebrate these aspects of yourself.
Share Your Story Authentically:
Be proud of who you are beyond your professional identity. Share your multifaceted self with confidence. Go to events and practice this, when introducing yourself, lead with the qualities that make you remarkable in the roles that you play, then share your professional role. Your value does not come from your role or company!
As you share your experiences, I commit to actively supporting you. If there's a connection, opportunity, or piece of advice that may benefit you, I'll be there to lend a helping hand and you don't have to ask. If I see it and can make a connection, add to a network, offer a referral, review a resume and offer feedback, or a word of encouragement- I will just do it. If I don't see something you post/need, then please tell me how you need help. When we share what we need, we avoid and eliminate assumptions and that avoids and eliminates hurt feelings and missed opportunities.
In times of change, our strength lies in unity and mutual support. Let's navigate this transition together, with resilience, courage, and the unwavering belief that your journey is far from over.
#NavigatingChange #CareerTransition #SupportEachOther #ValueBeyondTitles #NewBeginnings
Chief Financial Officer at DroneUp®️
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