As an recruiter, I regularly hear from people who were just laid off. Many of them, still reeling from the shock, can't imagine life without a regular paycheck. They think that working for a company = safety. As someone who has experienced both being laid off and launching a small business, I've come to identify the false sense of security that we subscribe to when we work for others. Companies don't owe you anything. In today's economy, many companies aren't able to offer even severance and transition assistance. Where's the 'security' in that?
For those of you in transition, are you open to freelance or contract work? Do you have a business idea burning in you? I challenge you to explore these options. While learning cash flow management can be scary, the sense of pride, accomplishment, empowerment and satisfaction that comes from taking charge of your career is worth the effort. Go for it.
