The DU Lounge
Related: Culture Forums, Support ForumsI got laid off yesterday.
Surprise, surprise: it wasnt due to office politics. It was a last hired, first fired situation for a company that has never had first-rate financial stats, and is scrambling after cost-cutting measures.
Plus, I was the oldest provider in my section, with undoubtedly the highest salary. So I accepted their very generous severance package, and called it a day.
I went back to the office this morning to close out my remaining charts, turn in my keys and my ID badge, and say goodbye to my colleagues.
Now Im at my favorite local pub enjoying a burger and a beer. Looking forward to some time off. Except for when I had my kidney stone, I havent had more than a week off at a time in twelve years. Im going to chill for a while.
I love you all
Joinfortmill
(21,157 posts)debm55
(60,568 posts)Jerry2144
(3,272 posts)The benefits are like additional money while you take a break. Go tomorrow and apply
LiberalBrooke
(576 posts)CaliforniaPeggy
(156,619 posts)Enjoy your well-earned time off. Take care of yourself!
I'm more than sure that there's a job out there that will suit you. Hope you find it when you're good and ready.
Scrivener7
(59,513 posts)patricia92243
(12,975 posts)TBF
(36,665 posts)I was in my late 30's when I got laid off. It had never happened to me previously, so I figured I'd just have a nice summer. My mom said I should apply for unemployment & I figured ok I could do that. This was 20 years ago and there were requirements to apply for a certain number of jobs per week to claim. So I dutifully did that, and wouldn't you know I had a new job within a couple of weeks. It was a little less money but in my field so I took it (and didn't really get nearly as much pool time as I hoped!).
Hopefully you'll get a little time to rest before it starts up again.
Skittles
(171,704 posts)now your accomplishments really don't mean that much, it's strictly numbers
Dock_Yard
(246 posts)Voltaire2
(15,377 posts)we are here for just a moment and then we are gone.
sinkingfeeling
(57,832 posts)GPV
(73,393 posts)underpants
(196,489 posts)Alice Kramden
(2,951 posts)And your return or new venture will be in perfect timing
redstatebluegirl
(12,827 posts)I am sure you will find something soon.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)In the meantime, enjoy your respite from the rat race!
et tu
(2,387 posts)a friend of mine just recently got a severance package from
a business [hunter douglas] because their blinds are made in mexico
and accounting support is heading to india. but she definitely has degrees
and skills, something even better is on the horizon for her. many times in
a new job things are better- pay, working conditions and new friendships
to be made. she also is taking a month off before she dives into the 'new'.
best wishes for you~
3catwoman3
(29,402 posts)I know things didn't live up to expectations at this place, despite sounding good going in.
Kick back, put your feet up, hoist a few, read some good books, and enjoy the time off. If you haven't had more than a week at a time in 12 years, you are way overdue. I'm a firm believer that "doing nothing is doing something."
Now that I am retired, people often ask me what I do. I tell them, "Whatever I want, and not whatever I don't want."
Prof. Toru Tanaka
(2,926 posts)I second your statement. Just keeping up on yardwork and helping with housework and laundry keep me busy now. That and my two fantasy football leagues.
Aristus, I hope you get a good opportunity in the future- I thought of that saying when one door closes, another opens when reading your post. Enjoy your break and all the best to you!
byronius
(7,973 posts)Wake up call. Its been a long and stressful career, and now I get to take it easy a bit.
I worked out regularly, no bad habits just job stress. Whew. I accept the message.
SergeStorms
(20,584 posts)You're lucky you got "a wake up call." Many people just drop in their tracks, lights off. Enjoy your retirement.
gademocrat7
(11,938 posts)moniss
(9,056 posts)Dock_Yard
(246 posts)Aged out of my small tech support work group at age 66.
The failing giant IT company was silently doing this to what the CEO called "dino-baby" staff for 2 decades.
The official reasons were made up out of loose ends, my pref reviews never alluded to any deficiencies.
Maddening.
I feel you, but I hope your life IMPROVES as much as mine has (in forced retirement).
SergeStorms
(20,584 posts)to spend time worrying about things you can't control.
I'm sure you'll enjoy the time off, and if you should choose to seek employment once again, be happy we're in the Biden/Harris economy and not Shit-stain45's.
I've thoroughly enjoyed my retirement for 20+ years now, and I hope to continue enjoying it for 20+ more. 😀
Best wishes for you, Aristus!
Warpy
(114,614 posts)even if you have to relocate to find it.
Time off is important. Septermber-October is the perfect time to travel.
erronis
(23,869 posts)Silent Type
(12,412 posts)barbtries
(31,307 posts)enjoy your time off. But it never feels good to lose a job. I hope it wasn't too big of a surprise.
mgardener
(2,360 posts)AllaN01Bear
(29,485 posts)OAITW r.2.0
(32,133 posts)Enjoy the Fall!
kimbutgar
(27,248 posts)Or maybe you can change fields? I always worked in office jobs in the financial industry and in 2013 after my boss died and another temp job I worked at I got laid off with a nice severance. I took a job as a move/ packing person who pack up seniors and then unpack them on the other side. It is so rewarding from the office work and I reactivated my teaching credential and became a substitute teacher. I love working with the young and old.
Remember the old adage when one door closes another one opens! Good luck!
mahina
(20,645 posts)cachukis
(3,932 posts)Wild blueberry
(8,295 posts)Please enjoy your time.
Looking forward to hearing about your next adventure. We love you, too.
Figarosmom
(11,979 posts)I ever got a vacation. It also helped me get my college degree on all grants from displaced worker programs. It's better than out and out being fired. Good luck and enjoy your time off. Just don't take too long before looking for a new job.
Shermann
(9,062 posts)I would be great to bank a severance package and then roll right into your next job.
BoomaofBandM
(1,956 posts)Enjoy your time off. Maybe have two ask me anything buzz nights.
Diamond_Dog
(40,569 posts)You definitely deserve some time to recharge your batteries!
Lets do a toast
.
To you for being so hardworking, compassionate, and a good Democrat
To me cause its my birthday today!
Cheers!
Lulu KC
(8,892 posts)Diamond_Dog
(40,569 posts)Aristus
(72,178 posts)Happy Birthday, Diamond Dog!
Diamond_Dog
(40,569 posts)Im so boring. Just having a glass of my usual Chardonnay. Im sure youve had some exotic craft beer with your burger.
Do you have any leads on another workplace? In your field, you must be in high demand.
Aristus
(72,178 posts)Yum!
I could always go back to my old employer. Yeah, I would face the prospect, like before (and the reason I left in the first place) of dying from overwork. But at least going back would be as easy as walking in the clinic door and talking to the manager.
An old colleague of mine (who recently ran for the local school board as a Democrat, and for whom I voted!) works for an organization I have applied to before, but they didn't have any openings in my field. I'll try there again some time.
Diamond_Dog
(40,569 posts)Your old workplace (and the patients) will be lucky to have you back (if thats what you decide).
niyad
(132,429 posts)ms.pamela
(88 posts)Aristus, I believe you live in Washington State and work in the medical field. You won't have a hard time finding work here but finding a good workplace is another thing. Good Luck
Aristus
(72,178 posts)I notice you post very little here. So I appreciate your kind and thoughtful reply all the more.
Thanks again...
Clouds Passing
(7,928 posts)Shermann
(9,062 posts)I may be in the same boat next year; things are already in motion.
SunSeeker
(58,278 posts)Enjoy this opportunity you have been given. When one door closes, another always opens.
Wicked Blue
(8,866 posts)but enjoy the break. You deserve it.
LoisB
(13,025 posts)raccoon
(32,389 posts)Hope you find something better!
Desert grandma
(1,076 posts)It has always been that for me. I was able to take some much needed time off, and it always led to a better position later. I hope the same for you! Enjoy the rest you so deserve!
Lonestarblue
(13,474 posts)That said, I ended up in better situations. Im wishing you some downtime just to enjoy life and then a whole new experience for you to love!
CaptainTruth
(8,198 posts)I wish you all the luck in the world.
When I was in a similar situation years ago I held out for the generous severance package, then took a year off to have some fun, do some things I always wanted to do, & think about what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.
I decided to start my own business in a different field, something I enjoy doing, & I've never regretted it. It's hard work but I love being my own boss & I have so many satisfied customers it can be a challenge to juggle all their projects, but I wouldn't want it any other way.
I hope you also find a path that makes you happy!
HeartsCanHope
(1,680 posts)Enjoy your time off. When you are ready I'm sure you will be able to find a new position. Take care.
viva la
(4,598 posts)My whole department got laid off last year, but they paid us for another 3 months. I got panicked and started looking for a job right away, and surprise, got one immediately. I kind of wish I would have taken a month off and just enjoyed my leisure.
AKwannabe
(6,890 posts)Evolve Dammit
(21,774 posts)orangecrush
(30,247 posts)KatyaR
(3,639 posts)Enjoy your downtime. It's precious.
Easterncedar
(6,265 posts)I am so happy being retired, much as I enjoyed my job. I am very sorry for the people you have been caring for, but it can be a joy to feel free to take care of yourself.
Please do!
MLAA
(19,741 posts)Now, to the important question, what kind of beer did you order?
Aristus
(72,178 posts)Very good.
Mme. Defarge
(9,019 posts)And dont let the bastards get you down!
Aristus
(72,178 posts)Merci beaucoup, chère Madame...
malthaussen
(18,567 posts)... doesn't seem like you had that job very long at all. Their loss, assuredly.
-- Mal
Aristus
(72,178 posts)Only the first two months were without stress, related to the kinds of petty office politics I never has to deal with at my old job.
Skittles
(171,704 posts)petty reasoning kind of thing
Aristus
(72,178 posts)because the higher-ups are lousy at managing money. I have a pretty large salary, and was hired very recently, so I'm sure those put me in the crosshairs.
southmost
(834 posts)got a severance package in 2019 resulting from a merger, was tough finding a job, but did appreciate the time off ...and eventually changed career paths, look up 🫡😁
GAJMac
(266 posts)Or Condolences?
usonian
(25,300 posts)And post your resume here (or DU mail it)
🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀
chillfactor
(7,694 posts)Glad you got a good severance package. Take some time off to smell the roses!
highplainsdem
(62,134 posts)better job in the future with a more dependable employer.
COL Mustard
(8,218 posts)Hang in there...something good will happen...make it so!
LauraInLA
(2,248 posts)Niagara
(11,849 posts)Take some time off, stick to your normal sleep schedule, network with past and current colleagues and stick to your workouts.
When your ready get back out there!
Enjoy your burger and beer.
chouchou
(3,142 posts)SheltieLover
(80,442 posts)Aristus
(72,178 posts)SheltieLover
(80,442 posts)Time for some new adventures for sure!
Aristus
(72,178 posts)I left my old job on a Friday and started my new job the very next Monday. Other than a week off to fly to Colorado to attend my granddaughter's high school graduation, I haven't really had any time off since then.
SheltieLover
(80,442 posts)Relax, enjoy!
Permanut
(8,390 posts)I have no doubt you will be fine.
Bayard
(29,679 posts)Fall is the best time of year. Take long walks in the woods, and enjoy your down time.
Could you just go ahead and retire?
Onthefly
(1,289 posts)captain queeg
(11,780 posts)Dont know how old you are but maybe you can find a way to retire. I retired at 62 for medical reason, which seems to be a common case. For a couple years I toyed with idea of returning to work but the retired life suits me.
niyad
(132,429 posts)Nov (if I remember correctly???) is no more? I know you will land on your feet, but sending vibes for the absolutely most perfect position for you!
Enjoy this time off, relax, and savour this wonderful fall season. How is Mrs. A doing?
Aristus
(72,178 posts)But I won't be around to take it, even if I still wanted to. I withdrew my application for the position when I learned that the doctor who has been making my life miserable for the last eight months was going to be working there, too. Working with her would definitely not be worth the shorter commute.
As I have said several times before in my drinking threads: Office politics.
ColinC
(11,098 posts)biophile
(1,421 posts)I hope new adventures are ahead for you! You know, the old when one door closes
In the meantime, you deserve the break! A person of your talent and charm will always land on their feet!
Good luck!
2naSalit
(102,778 posts)As you mentioned, it gives you some chill time. All in all, I think congrats are in order.
Trueblue Texan
(4,461 posts)True Dough
(26,664 posts)Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, or Andorra. The time might be now?!?
Some employer is going to be head over heels to have you. In the meantime, we might get a double or triple dose of Aristus around the Lounge. We all win!!!
MiHale
(13,032 posts)You are where you are at the exact time youre supposed to be there.
Generic Brad
(14,374 posts)You sound like you have a good perspective on the matter. I wish you the best as you reorientate yourself.
surfered
(13,455 posts)keithbvadu2
(40,915 posts)sueh
(1,955 posts)waiting for you if you want it.
soldierant
(9,354 posts)I was in my mid-sixties. The company moved my department's functions to other states. Prior to that I had always had somewhere to go in advance of leaving - starting with leaving the military and having the GI bill. But at least at that point I didn't have to wait long to be full age for Social Security. I hope you find something that will work for you equally smoothly, though I'm sure not in the same details.
Polybius
(21,900 posts)Hope that at least put a smile on your face. Good luck and hope you find another job soon!
calikid
(710 posts)I think this is a good thing you losing your "job", we all here will get to enjoy more time with you!
Aristus
(72,178 posts)Sweet!
MontanaMama
(24,721 posts)Time for doing some good for you. Im sorry about the circumstances but may they wind up being a blessing.
AmBlue
(3,460 posts)May you find a new opportunity that better suits you, and that has better command of their finances. In the meantime, time to stop and smell the roses.
UpInArms
(54,973 posts)Enjoy your moments of not working 🫂
Lionel Mandrake
(4,209 posts)I got laid off in 1992 after 23 years at the same company. I also had mixed feelings about it.
DFW
(60,180 posts)I think Id do the same under the circumstances, although at age 72, if I got laid off, Id probably say what the hell, and call it a day. Ive been with same outfit since August, 1975, and have a little equity in the company, so Id say, pay me out and were done.
Boredom terrifies me more than anything else, so make sure it doesnt stalk you. I hear the labor market isnt too bad in the States right now, so unless your only marketable skill is training squirrels to speak Bulgarian, I would think you could find some gainful employment somewhere, if you decide youre in the market sgain.
ProfessorGAC
(76,693 posts)Enjoy your respite.
what a great attitude! enjoy your unscheduled vacation! best of luck to you in the future!
Marthe48
(23,174 posts)It is a surprise, because it is so soon after you landed your position. Maybe it's better in the long run to get away from a company that seems to be unsure of its near term and long term goals.
At the end of the day, it cannot be just about the bottom line.
SocialDemocrat61
(7,635 posts)Hope you find a new job soon.
liberal N proud
(61,194 posts)It was office politics as the VP doing the layoffs had a grudge against engineering.
Walked in one morning and my manager was walking out saying nothing, I was next, I reach my office and received a call to come to his office. Then they went down the line letting all my people go.
It was a shocker, about 3 months before I found something, it looked like a good fit until after about 4 months, they just shut down. Financial troubles.
It took me another 3 months, I worked at AutoZone for a few, did some IT work for several months before landing another engineering position, did that for 5 years before walking away because of office politics, that and a small company had been recruiting me for months. I changed companies and roles at 64, promising the owner I would work 5 years before I retire, health permitting.
Just dont get discouraged, enjoy your time off if you can and know you will find another job.
Shermann
(9,062 posts)I'm debating making a similar commitment in the near future. The alternative is the gig economy.
RainCaster
(13,702 posts)Enjoy your time off.
Erda
(231 posts)and every moment into the future!
pandr32
(14,270 posts)Take the time and enjoy. New things are on the horizon.
Picaro
(2,393 posts)Sometimes stepping off the treadmill for a bit can be very restorative.
mahina
(20,645 posts)Hoping for good all around, especially for you.
NoSheep
(8,343 posts)BlueKota
(5,342 posts)but glad you have sometime for rest and relaxation. Hope you have many brighter days ahead.
SpankMe
(3,719 posts)I'm glad there was a good severance package. I was laid off in 2021 under similar circumstances, but there was no severance. Just a final paycheck and escort out the door after being watched cleaning out my cubicle.
They probably hired you for your experience to help guide and build your area of the company. Your pay was close to being commensurate with your graybeard status. Incredibly, this status also makes you a tempting target come RIF time.
Enjoy your time off! I hope you can turn something up soon.
roamer65
(37,953 posts)If I get severanced, I plan on taking a couple of months off and then looking for some contract jobs.
bif
(26,993 posts)When you're working, all you think about is what you'd do if you had time off. And when you're not working, all you think about is getting another job. So just chill and make the best of it!
I wish you the very best.
Prairie_Seagull
(4,688 posts)Sorry this happened to you.
I have books stacked to the arm on my recliner and I am retired. I can only imagine what your reading list is like.
Start with the fun stuff. haha
SleeplessinSoCal
(10,412 posts)More time to volunteer to elect Kamala/Tim!
Meanwhile, collect that unemployment insurance and eventually find that perfect fit.