When it comes to crisis, I am a true believer in the importance of community.
In the interviews and talks I’ve given recently on the topic of “Saving Your (downsized) Soul,” I often cite the research that people who have strong support systems do the best in times of transition. This includes those many of us who have been downsized as a result of the current recession.
That’s why, in fact, I decided it was critical to expand the notion of Labor Day this year to embrace not only those of us who are still employed, but the whole of the labor pool community—those who are under and unemployed, as well.
In a nutshell, I’ve suggested that those of us celebrating the national holiday revision September 7 as Downsized Labor Day. In an editorial that ran in USA Today, I specifically ask those who are still working to commit to do one thing during the coming week for someone who has lost their job. You could return their call, help them make a networking connection or heck, even invite them to your backyard picnic.
I came up with the idea for Downsized Labor Day based on the many stories I’ve heard from people who have not only lost their jobs, but access to their network of working peers and former associates.
The fact is, I always assumed that when the research spoke of the strength of one’s support network, it was these former fellow workers to whom they were referring. But when I, myself, was downsized and the people with whom I used to lunch, meet with and network regularly had done what they could to help me out, they gradually, unceremoniously faded away. No drama, no farewell rituals — not even the emotional catharsis of breaking up.
Which is such a drag, because with whom can one let one’s hair down better than someone that knows exactly what you contributed — and what you’re going through. Who has the kind of fresh, practical advice those of us who have been marginalized most need?
The answer is this: perfect strangers. By this, I mean that for me, it was you — the women I’ve met online at VibrantNation.com — who have been there for me. It is you who could offer feedback, guidance even specific contacts, knowing that you bore no shame in regards to your limitations when it came to offering help. It was you who enjoying the veil of anonymity could say what you really believed and who never seemed to worry that by engaging in meaningful conversation, you might have inadvertently caught what happened to me.
Overall, I’d have to say that my online community served me better through this transition back to employment than did my offline one—a subject that bears additional research, and perhaps a revised citation in my next talk.
But whether community is on or offline: that’s not to say we shouldn’t work on having both. Especially when it comes to non-virtual versions of Downsized Labor Day, when there may very well be hot dogs and beer involved.
Agreed. I never thought I was vain until I had a mastectomy at age 39. I was devastated and told the doc I wanted to wake up with implants. Now at age 60, I am lopsided and wondering if I was just avoiding the inevitable. You get what you get and you
Sounds very interesting.
Spike, you are awesome! Love your perspective, thanks for sharing.
It’s a reality we’re having serious problems of work loses worldwide. I’m from Mexico City and the situation nowadays in my country, it’s very difficult. In fact, sometimes it’s necessary to hear words of motivation. That’s why, i’d like you to come to an event as a speaker in the city of Mazatlan, would you like to?
Hi Yolo,
First of all, I love that VibrantNation.com is international! Ola! And thanks so much for the invitation to speak. If you look at the bottom of this page, you’ll see under “Press Information” a tab for “Speakers.” There you will see the topics I can address, my bio, etc. plus, of course, contact information. I love Mazatlan and would be happy to come if we can work out the logistics. If you want a short-cut to communication, please email Ceci@VibrantNation.com and we’ll get the ball rolling.
Best,
Carol
This was very enlightening. I feel (a tad) bit better about my situation. I have been unemployed since July 23rd. I have a degree, I am a paralegal. However, there seems to be no resolution in clear sight. All I hear when I share my story is “things will get better”. You know what? I have patience. I will wait. But eventually wait (weight) will break my wagon wheels.