I wish I knew when I was facing layoffs
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From 2000 to 2010, the telecommunications industry underwent significant restructuring. By the end, nearly the entire sector had been decimated, with few survivors. Many people were laid off at different times or lived with the constant threat of layoffs during this stressful period. I was part of the team that went through over 20 rounds of layoffs before I finally quit on my own terms. Looking back, the anxiety of potentially being laid off inflicted more damage on my mind and spirit than the actual impact of the layoffs. If I had the choice, I would have preferred to be laid off earlier so I could move on to a new life, rather than exist like a zombie for many years. Now, being older and arguably a little wiser, I have some advice for my younger self who was constantly worried about layoffs: Make your bed every morning. In the midst of continuous layoffs, it was easy to fall into inaction and blame circumstances beyond your control: time, the company, the industry, anything we could point a finger at. However, this blame game helped no one. Making your bed every morning gives you a small, predictable achievement each day, and "if it happens to be a tough day, at least you have a clean bed to come back to," as a wise Navy Seal Admiral once said. Take a cold shower every day. Yes, the chill of the water can do wonders for your body and mind. Commit to physical exercise with a clear goal. I used to run casually, but running took on a new meaning when I started training for marathons. My training became more purposeful and structured. So, to my younger self in the 2000s, I'd say: "Sign up for a local marathon and train seriously for it. Running becomes much more engaging when you have a clear objective. And running will change you." Concentrate on a niche area that will benefit your long-term career and strive to excel in it. For example, I could have dedicated more time to mastering coding, security engineering, and cryptography. Become an expert on whatever the topic you pick. This world always needs more pros who really know what they are doing! Engage in activities that allow you to volunteer your time and grow simultaneously. I became a PSIA Alpine ski instructor later in my life. While I taught many students, I learned more from the teaching process itself. If I knew better, I would have started teaching in my 20s. Life is far more interesting when you can share your passion and positively influence others. But the most crucial piece of advice I'd give my younger self is this: life is much more than just a job. Be kind to the people you love and never take them for granted. Cherish every moment with them. They are the most important part of your life. Don't wait to become someone; be someone you can be proud of now.