I lost my job – yet again! My body had stored a similar experience from 10 years ago; the trauma was still there. I woke up to the abyss of past feelings, still raw. The shock passed, I started reflecting on how an inspired leader would take this forward.
The first step lies in the art of rewriting the story, reconnecting with your purpose in life. It goes something like this… You did not lose your job; you took a new direction. You needed a change, as your job was not allowing you to flourish and bring out your full potential to the world. Even better… what if the next step was going to lead you to the career of your dreams?! When you lose your job it is time to reconnect with your deepest desires, and push aside all your limiting beliefs: I am not safe, I am not wanted, I am bad, I am too old, I am too young, etc. You know what I mean!
The second step relates to others: your platform. Rely on your tribe: i.e. the people with whom you resonate. You do not need to go through this alone. These people may not be in your professional circle, but they believe in you. You share the same values; you look at life in a similar way. Your story may well be helpful to them; they want to help; they can mirror back to you your own brilliance and reconnect you to your environment.
The last step anchors you to your inner power. Stay open to what is coming your way. Embrace change and feel the power within that calls for expansion, becoming who you are at heart instead of conforming to what others have imposed on you. Accept your vulnerability and be generous towards your surroundings, even when you feel this painful contraction inside. Trust that the world is supporting you, even when the signs are all negative. Yes, this is a stretch, but catching the impulse of evolution while your whole being is contracting is a powerful propeller.
Ultimately, as an inspired leader, you will find your way to these three steps, but you may push aside the pain and avoid spending time with your feelings. Don’t! Losing a job is not easy. It is painful and I would strongly recommend taking time to grieve and acknowledge those feelings. They will help you connect with others and inspire them one day when they face a similar experience. Finally, processing your feelings may also avoid a repeat of a similar experience in future.