Bouncing back: Turning setbacks into stepping stones
I try not to look back. I refuse to look back.
Backtracking feels like playing a game of "shoulda, coulda, woulda." Dwelling on the past can trap us in cycles of regret and self-doubt. But for me, understanding what I could have improved or accomplished is essential for growth. Being impacted by a job elimination leaves you picking up the pieces—trying to make sense of what happened. The first thoughts that ran through my mind were, "Oh my goodness... I was on a roll, and now this! And what's gonna happen with my team?"
We spend a significant portion of our lives at work, investing time, emotional energy, and passion. Our careers often become intertwined with our identities. So naturally, when an unexpected event happens, it's only human to reflect on what could have been different. It's part of moving on and progressing; to move forward properly; to ensure I don't make the same mistakes again. It's a learning moment. It has to be a learning moment.
Two big lessons I learned
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Navigate your career through self-reliance
In the corporate world, the reality is that you must be your own champion. At their core, companies prioritize business objectives over individual aspirations. Decisions are often made based on numbers, not names. This isn’t a critique, but a nod to how many organizations operate. Understanding this has reinforced the importance of taking ownership of my career. It's up to me to advocate for myself—to seek out opportunities—and to make sure my efforts are visible. -
Let go of what you can’t control
So much of what happens in life is beyond our control. Market downturns, company restructurings, leadership changes… these are events we have very little influence on. What we can control is our response. By focusing on developing my skills, maintaining a positive attitude, and being adaptable, I can navigate uncertainties more effectively. Worrying about things outside my control only sucks up energy that could be better spent elsewhere.
Reflections: What I wish I could have done
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Protected my team from the impact
My team wasn't just a group of colleagues. They were like family. I was deliberate and meticulous about hiring them, so I felt a deep responsibility for their professional growth and well-being. If I had the opportunity, I would’ve taken additional steps to shield them from anything negative. That includes advocating more strongly for their work, providing them with resources to enhance their job security, and preparing them for unexpected changes. -
Made more progress on key projects
We were in the midst of some groundbreaking projects that had the potential to significantly impact the company and the content design discipline. Making more headway on those initiatives might have demonstrated the value our team brought to the table, possibly influencing different decisions. It would have also given the team a stronger portfolio of achievements. -
Finished my team strategy
A comprehensive strategy serves as a roadmap—aligning everyone towards common goals. Completing my team’s strategic plan could have further solidified our direction and provided clarity. It could have empowered the team to continue progressing even without me around. I strongly believe that a well-articulated strategy can outlive personnel changes and help keep momentum going in times of change and uncertainty.
The irony of time
If only I had more time.
But that's the irony of it all. Life doesn't pause to let us “catch up.” Opportunities can vanish as quickly as they appear. It's akin to getting caught off guard. There's an abruptness that leaves you feeling exposed and unprepared. There's no closure. No neatly tied bow to wrap up the experience. Yet closure is what’s needed to move forward.
Those unrealized opportunities don't have to be regrets. Instead, they can become part of our narrative; the stories we carry into our next roles. They’re lessons etched into our professional journey—shaping how we approach future opportunities and challenges.
Embracing the next chapter
As I navigate this unexpected turn, I remind myself that every ending is, in fact, a new beginning. The discomfort of change is usually the catalyst for growth. The lessons learned and experiences gained are invaluable. They shape who I am and who I will become in my next chapter. I choose to see this setback not as a defeat, but as an opportunity to reassess and realign my goals. (Maybe this is the nudge I needed to force me to explore other areas).
Moving forward with purpose
Looking ahead, I'm committed to applying the lessons I’ve learned. I'll continue to advocate for myself and my team, to focus on what I can control, and to embrace the learning moments that come up. Change is inevitable, but how we respond to it is what will define our trajectory. It's okay to reflect—to feel the sting of disappointment—but don't let it anchor you to the past. Use it as fuel to propel yourself forward.
I choose growth, resilience, and optimism.