“Don’t let the Management Turkeys Get you Down” – Yes, that is right, don’t go there girlfriend. Ask yourself these questions:
- Have you ever been fired from a job?
- Experienced a painful re-organization?
Sandra Boyton - Endured incompetent leadership?
- Frustrated your dream company had or has a toxic culture?
- Tired that the white male dominated board of directors put people last?
Well – you are NOT alone. Many of us have walked this road several times over. If you are one of us trying to walk it, or even riding your bike on and off road, what I feel you need to know is that you must listen to that inner voice and share your observations, document them and stay focused on what really matters to you. I realize this is hard to do during these difficult times, but it’s indeed the only way through the tunnel, the pass or down the street. It doesn’t mean we cannot get off the bike, the trail or the course – what I’m trying to convey is that we do have choices that may not feel like choices financially or otherwise. But we have a conscious opportunity to treat people with dignity and respect and behave in a manner that we all deserve to be treated. When I’ve been fired, I found that we do need to grieve and be frustrated. It’s normal and important to process all the feelings. I find that it is important to scream, be irritated, punch something, complain and release it. What have given me the most strength are my principles, my soul and my value structure. Take this time to be the statue that represents all those things. Live with integrity, transform the negative into redemption. Take the moments when those feelings start, try to use this energy to nurture and focus on yourself during this lonely time where you will need to remember that it’s actually your time to shine with your principles and value structure. For goodness sake, it’s only a job. It’s not your identity. Yes, I know, it is inconvenient – but with laser focus – a positive attitude and a network for support. This too will pass. After all, it’s a good time to dig deep inside you for new inspiration.
Thanks to HBR for sharing the focus in their recent series on failure and a shout out to the Sandra Boyton inspired coffee cup sayings.
The Lauren Klein 