I saw this the other day on Instagram and I reposted on my personal page because it resonated with me.

Evidently, it resonated with many of you because I got tons of reactions from friends. It’s a really simple graphic… it’s really about balance (which is not a new concept), but why is it so helpful to see it right now?

Here’s my theory.

There is no doubt that we are in big time Groundhog Day-mode. We are all Bill Murray. #everysingleday

There’s not a whole lot of variety going on in our days.

Whether you are a first responder, a checkout person, WFH remotely, AND trying to homeschool, cook, clean and keep things somewhat “normal” for your kids— we’re all pretty laser focused these days, living in the moment. People have different coping mechanisms, and for some— putting the head down and work, work, work is the way to get through it. #washrinserepeat

But inevitably, your mind wanders off as to what COULD be once the stay at home orders are lifted. We long for the days we can go outside without face coverings, hug our loved ones, and meet friends for a drink. It almost feels a little bit indulgent to think about it, if I’m being honest.

For me, everything feels like it take a bit more effort. Like I’m giving 150%, but my output feels much lower. I need one of those stars in Super Mario that pops out of the block. You know, the one that makes you invincible for like 10 seconds and you can run through everything.

But this is our collective reality— there is no magic star, and grinding every day, without taking those conscious breaks is mentally grueling. Maybe you typically take a couple days off in the spring for a vacation…

…and maybe you didn’t this year because you’d rather “save it” for when we can do things and go places.

…maybe you didn’t take it because you wanted to keep some normalcy or a routine.

…maybe you didn’t take the time because you’re worried about your job; the fear around layoffs and furloughs are real.

Here’s the thing though— you can’t work yourself into the ground OR out of our current Covid reality. You have to take a break.

You have to take a brain break.

Do you know what happens to muscles you never relax? They don’t get stronger— in fact, your body adapts in a way to compensate for the fact you’re not resting and something else will be compromised (thank you, physical therapist friends)

Work MAY keep you busy and occupied, but like all trauma (I classify this whole experience as trauma, BTW), at some point— you need to process it.

In the event of layoff/ furlough, the emotional processing becomes exponentially important— because it’s hard to do start your next professional chapter if you haven’t resolved the prior one.

In my career, I’ve interviewed many people who have been affected by job loss, in different economic cycles (post 9-11, financial crisis, divestitures) and across various industries (media, financial services, real estate).

I can always tell the candidates who have made “peace” with their job loss— they typically interview well; are confident and are successful.

Conversely, I’ve interviewed those who had not or did not take the time and/ or steps to understand what they just went through — and it always shows up during the conversation.

The energy is different. The words feel heavier.

There is a bitterness.

And that intangible feeling of , “do I want to work with this person every day??

It’s not there.

Everyone processes things in different ways and at varying speeds, but I do know one thing for sure— you will be more resilient and have better perspective if you will have practiced some semblance of balance along the way.

When people ask me, “What do I do if I’ve been laid off?”

My answer? Take a little time*. Get right with yourself, formulate your your plan, and execute it.

*NB: I know that sounds a lot easier than it is.

When people ask me, “how do you know when you’re ready to start looking? Is there a sign?”

My answer — yes, and it honestly looks and feels a little bit like dating. Sometimes you break up with someone, sometimes you get your heart broken— either way, there comes a day where you know you’ve let it go and you’re ready to move forward.

Finally, if you are offered any assistance in the form of outplacement services… USE IT.

Outplacement is a benefit that many companies are cutting back on for cost purposes, if they offer it at all. But if you can access outplacement services as a part of your job loss— make the call. Log onto that webinar.

You don’t have to go right away, but MAKE THE CALL as soon as you think you can.

Why???

Even if you think it is dumb and you think the services aren’t effective — you are taking an action. You are taking the first step forward—maybe the hardest and important step in the process.

To acknowledge that you’re open to help; it is a brave and courageous step.

And that is to be celebrated.

THAT is productivity.

You’re ready to start dating.

Be well & stay well,

Jean