I don’t know how your year is going, but so far 2012 and I are not on very good terms. The latest curve ball is a bit of a doozy.
The short version of the story is that I lost my job on Friday (though, I’m assured, not because I was doing it poorly), and I’ve been in recovery mode since then.
I’m lining up some freelancing work, which kind of blows my mind, since freelancing is something that has always terrified me. I don’t know how long I’ll want to do it, but it’s sort of astonishing (and such a relief) to know I’ve already arranged for some future checks (however small) to arrive in my mailbox.
I’m making very-last-minute plans to attend the travel blogging conference in Denver next month, since networking seems like a pretty good idea right now, and even though I’ve met many of the people who’ll be attending the conference it would be nice for me to personally update them with new business cards.
And, most important, I’m rallying my troops and feeling beyond blessed to have so many incredible friends who are genuinely willing to help rebuild my social network and spread the word about my new contact information. Words will never be able to express how thankful I am for this.
I’ve got plenty of work to do (which is an ironic thing to say, when one loses one’s job) – I need to get new business cards made, get a proper portfolio and CV on this site, and actually book my flight to the aforementioned conference – and right now it feels good to have something immediate toward which I can direct my energy. That, I’ve decided, is preferable to curling up in the fetal position and hoping this will pass.
photo by Tobias Mandt
12 comments on “One Door Closes (And I’m Off to Find the Next Door)”
If you need or desire absolutely ANYTHING, let me know – I’ve been through this, TWICE, both times with what I thought were career jobs. Here’s to ridiculously amazing times ahead!
Thanks, doll, I’d actually love to pick your brain RE freelancing. Maybe we can Skype soon? (I also realize I owe you an email, too…)
Sorry to hear your news. I’m sure you’ll be in demand at TBEX though. I can hear many doors opening…. Onwards and upwards! 🙂
Thanks, Pete – I’ll be listening for those doors!
So sorry to hear that. I know how much you enjoyed your job! And, how much the rest of us enjoyed having you do it so well!
The family and I will be thinking good thoughts that with your contacts, your skills and your wonderful like-able personality, that good news will come your way quickly!
Warm hugs and hot espresso to you! 🙂
Kathrin
Thanks, Kathrin. 🙂
So sorry to hear about this, Jessica. But as I read this post, I thought that you of all people would be such a fantastic person to lead tours to some of your favorite places in Italy!! Charge enough from the guests so that you will be a free traveler…. (I know it’s not so simple, but you have such a wealth of knowledge about Italy we would love to hear, and see.) I wish you all the best. Being off balance is scary. Take the time between ideas to see your own city as a tourist. Walking can do wonders. So can taking deep breaths to help get thru a panicky situation. If you get down to Santa Barbara, let me know!
Carole
Thanks so much, Carole! I’ve thought about leading tours before; I’m not sure I’d be a good person to do it, though, since I have basically zero maternal instinct (read: I’m not good at taking care of people!)… But who knows what the future holds?
God. I’m sorry to hear that, Jess. But, like you say, finding the next door is a great way to go. And as someone who’s also closing a door (albeit voluntarily), and trying to open new ones, I’m right there with you in spirit.
Allora – andiamo? 🙂
Andiamo INDEED. The fact that I have that word tattooed on my forearm is even more important right now.
I’ve said it before but it bears repeating: you’re so damn good at what you do, this cloud is sure to come with a silver lining. I won’t see you at TBEX, but will be with you in spirit as you navigate the next part of your life’s journey.
(And since you asked, my 2012 has so far not exactly been stellar either, so here’s hoping this phase of the moon passes quickly!)
All best Jessica,
Julie
(the artist formerly known as WhyGoCanada)
Thanks, Julie, that means a great deal to me. And yes, here’s to 2012 getting its act together and treating us with a bit more kindness!