Day 269 of 2026
Today, a coworker emailed to let us know he had been laid off. He was in shock. He wanted to say goodbye and thank everyone for the opportunity to work with others throughout the company.
He said he didn't know where he was going next, but he was thankful for the people already helping him look for another job. He had thought about retiring, but that was not an option for him right now.
What stood out to me was that he even thanked the people who had been “a bit difficult” to work with. Those were his actual words—a bit difficult. I thought that was interesting. Even while dealing with the shock of losing his job, he found a way to recognize everyone who had been part of his experience, including the people who had challenged him.
I wondered whether those difficult people had taught him something. Maybe they had helped him become more patient, resilient, or confident. Perhaps they had shown him what kind of coworker or leader he did—or did not—want to be.
It takes a certain amount of grace to look back at a difficult experience and still find something for which to be thankful.
I am sure there are many other people who have lost their jobs or have suddenly been told, “Today is your last day.” To all of you going through a job loss—or any other difficult time—I know how hard it can be.
A job is rarely just a job. It is often connected to our financial security, daily routine, relationships, confidence, and sense of identity. Losing it can affect every part of our lives.
One day, you are answering emails, attending meetings, and making plans for the weeks ahead. The next day, you are told that your position has been eliminated. Suddenly, you have to say goodbye, return your equipment, and figure out what comes next.
Even if you knew layoffs were happening, hearing that your own position is gone can still leave you in shock. You may feel afraid, angry, embarrassed, relieved, confused, or all of those things at once.
There is no single correct way to respond.
You do not have to pretend that everything is fine. You do not have to immediately turn the experience into something positive. You are allowed to take a breath, feel what you are feeling, and give yourself time to understand what just happened.
A layoff is a business decision, but it can feel deeply personal. It is important to remember that losing your position does not mean you have lost your value.
Your job title was never the complete definition of who you are.
You are still the person who showed up, solved problems, helped coworkers, learned new things, and gained years of experience. Those qualities do not disappear because someone removed your name from an organizational chart.
When the initial shock begins to settle, take one step at a time. Talk to the people you trust. Update your résumé when you feel ready. Reach out to former coworkers and professional connections. Accept help from the people who genuinely want to support you.
You do not need to have your entire future figured out today.
My coworker said he did not know where he was going next. That uncertainty is frightening, but it is also honest. Sometimes we simply do not know what comes next. We can only move forward with the information, strength, and support we have at that moment.
His email also reminded me that the way we treat people at work matters.
A company may forget how many meetings we attended, or emails we sent, but people remember how we made them feel. They remember who listened, who offered help, who showed kindness, and who made a difficult day a little easier.
That is what remains when the work comes to an end.
Today, I am thinking about my coworker and everyone else facing an unexpected goodbye. I hope that after the shock, fear, and uncertainty, a new opportunity finds its way to you. I hope you encounter people who recognize your experience and appreciate what you have to offer.
Most of all, I hope you remember that this moment is part of your story, but it is not the end of it.
You may not know where you are going yet, and that is okay. For today, breathe. Allow people to help you. Be gentle with yourself, and take the next step when you are ready.
Wishing you peace, strength, and happiness from my heart to yours!
Peace,
Monita
