Lessons Learned during Unemployment and Job Search: A Journey to Renewal and Self-Discovery

My journey through the job market recently has been both a rollercoaster and an adventure. Along the way, I've stumbled upon several invaluable lessons that have not only guided my career but have also transformed my personal growth.

Lesson 1:Persistence is the Key

I interviewed with companies that conducted rounds and rounds of interviews that dragged on for months. One company even kept me waiting for a response, which was frustrating. However, these experiences taught me that the process is marathon, not a sprint. It's not over until it is officially concluded.

Lesson 2: Politeness Equals Respect

I had an encounter with an HR leader from a major media conglomerate who gave me a blunt rejection, telling me that she would evaluate other candidates before making a decision. That was an overpowering blow and an example of how uncomfortable their workplace culture could be. Yet, I also interacted with leaders who were courteous and genuinely listened to my story, showing empathy and understanding. Regardless of the company culture, politeness and humility always make a positive impression.

Lesson 3: Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength

In my search, I reached out to numerous professionals and asked if they would share my profile in their networks. Some provided no response while others gave a positive affirmation with no real action. There were also those who were incredibly generous in their support. You never know who will be willing to help you until you ask. It's perfectly acceptable to seek assistance.

Lesson 4: To Reach New Horizons, You Must Depart From Familiar Grounds

interviewers often asked me if my goal was to stay in the same industry. I often found myself answering in the negative, as I had the desire to explore different areas and industries. Embracing change and leaving your comfort zone is necessary to achieve new horizons.

Lesson 5: Dealing with Stress

One day, a friend called me saying, 'You are unemployed, not unemployable.' Her words struck me deeply. It reminded me that my value as a professional goes beyond a job description and that stress is a natural part of career growth. I took her advice and reframed my mindset, focusing on how to handle and alleviate stress constructively.

Challenges and Reflections

During a challenging period of my life – a divorce, the loss of a parent, and a child who had run away – I decided to take a sabbatical from my career. My position was one of leadership within a large public university, a high-level role with a considerable paycheck. Dealing with the personal issues made it difficult to focus on my work. The voice within me pushing me to step away grew louder, and despite the well-intentioned advice from friends, I took the plunge and left my job.

Embracing Change

Adapting to a new environment and a different lifestyle was challenging. I moved 100 miles away to a small seaside community, far from the city where I had built my reputation. However, instead of fear and panic setting in, a sense of calm enveloped my life. I redirected my focus to personal development and self-care, exploring what truly made me happy at work and in life.

Financial and Personal Balance

As my savings dwindled, I realized the importance of financial planning. I started to save and conserve, although my lifestyle was not as frugal as one would expect. I recognized the need to rebuild my financial reserves for the future. Reflecting on my experiences, I gained insights into what truly matters in my life – good people, a meaningful mission, and community engagement.

Conclusion

My journey through unemployment has been a learning process, teaching me resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of personal growth. While it was challenging, it also provided an opportunity to reconceptualize my career and life goals. By embracing change and focusing on what truly matters, I discovered a renewed sense of purpose and self.