I was laid off today. I learned about this site only a few days ago and started to review it regularly as I began to sense that my days at the company were numbered. I never for a second thought about commenting though...what would be the point...but then, I read entries of encouragement from others who understand what this feels like, who took the time to share their stories, and to wish those of who were laid off today encouragement and peace...to those of you who took the time to do that...thanks so much. Although I will never the get the chance to shake your hand...please know that your words of encouragement meant a great deal. Now I'll wax on simply for the sake of catharsis...after all, I've got a lot of time on my hands now. :-)
It just felt like....it was over inside. I gave my best and more each day to a company that has forgotten itself, its values, and its people. It's struggling, and quite frankly, its sinking. No organization can afford to forget the fundamentals. Leadership is so busy worrying about the mechanics, and details of operating a complex organization, that it has forgotten that people are the foundation upon which all the rest is built. If you hurt your people significantly enough, and long enough, you no longer have a foundation upon which to build anything, and that's where we are today. The constant RIF's are like re-opening a closed wound over and over again without ever letting it heal. At some point, it's going to get infected and destroy the system.
I am grateful for my time at the company. Saddened by what it has become - stock prices come and go - but ultimately, its the legacy of the people that count most...
To my fellow UP colleagues who laid off today - I wish each of you the very best, and pray that you find the fulfillment you deserve in the years ahead. God Speed.