First say to yourself what you would be;
and then do what you have to do.
– Epictetus
When I was laid off during the financial debacle, it did not come as a surprise given I worked for big bank. Admittedly, I wasn’t happy to be unemployed or making no money, but mentally I was thrilled (it’s no fun working 60 hours a week to try to keep a job you know might be on the chopping block.) During the time, I was looking for a new job, my friends were their with not only support but made a point of checking in to see how I was doing. What I am ever grateful for is that they made a point of inviting me out for dinner and drinks on more than several occasions.
And picking up the tab. Mind you, I never felt that they were being condescending about picking up the tab or reminding me of my financial circumstance it was about getting me out of my apartment and keeping up my spirits.
I thank them all the time for bucking me up, providing advice and encouragement, networking contacts and best of all their company.
So this past week, when a friend told me she had just gotten laid off, I contacted her immediately about having drinks. The first few days are not fun even if you see it coming. Your mind is a swirl of what do I do now…
She was more than happy to meet as I knew she need to get her story out (all part of the process, anger and denial as they say.) We met for drinks at a casual place in my neighborhood where we could actually talk. It was a good conversation and while it’s never good to be laid off, I reminded her that the economy is so much better now that it was when I got laid off and there were no jobs to be had and people across every industry were being laid off.
Of course, I offered to pay for drinks. I was only too happy to pay it forward when someone else needs a lift and support.
Has there every been a time when you provided a friend or colleague a much needed it lift in their life?
