Resiliency for 2021!

Resiliency is something we all have, but some can navigate it easier than others. I am one who got gifted with the ability and it comes to me very naturally. Perhaps it’s because I don’t believe in a dead end outcome. Even in my darkest hours, I would have never thought of it as being the end or boo hoo me. I’ve always been able to remind myself to know the bad is temporary and brighter days are ahead. I live my life with gratitude and know my life is always worth fighting for.

2017 was the year of sadness, anger, frustration and the unknown for me. I lost my job and I couldn’t find another one. Now let me tell you, that has never happened to me before. I’ve lost a job, but never not be able to find another one within the same week. The truth, I was always able to find another job within the same day after quitting/losing a job. 

What’s in a job? I’ve had one of those since before I was legally able to work according to the government of Ontario, Canada. I think I’ve been babysitting since I was twelve and as soon as I turned fourteen, I set out to look for a “proper” part time job. That’s called responsibility, right? I spent my teenage years and most of my twenties acting responsible. I went to school and held a job or two at the same time. Isn’t that what you are to do when heading into adulthood?  

So what do you do after losing a job and can’t find another? I looked in the mirror and tore myself apart with all the “what if, I should’ve, where did I go wrong?” At the time, I realised my success in life was based on how well I was able to perform through my responsibilities. I was taught from young to be responsible and independent, that is what being an adult it about. For me, my job was one of my main responsibilities and when I lost it, I didn't know who I was.

I cried (in private, because no one can see me cry), I threw myself a pity party (in secret, of course), then I looked in the mirror and said, “Now what? What does it all mean? How on earth have I not been able to find another job in 2 years?” I did some serious deep breathing for some time, still staring into the mirror. Then it was like a lightbulb had gone off in my head, it was quite a pivotal moment. It wasn’t that I couldn’t get a job in 2 years. I made the choice not to apply to just any job that had a posting. I’ve learned about my worth and I refused to take on just any work that came my way. I was applying only to jobs that I knew I was interested in and the pay was fair to the position. Like so many other women out in the world, I had been taken advantage of for years and was devaluing my worth. My “stubbornness” (as a Taurus) wouldn’t take a step back and play small this time.  

I made a choice, a life decision. It didn’t go smoothly for 2 years, but it really taught me a lesson. Everything is going to work out. Let go of things you can’t control. Breathe, don’t forget to breathe. Open your mind and eyes. We each have a calling, what is yours? Listen, it didn’t happen overnight for me. I spent much of my life being a wanderer and waiting to see where my life would take me. Acknowledge your skills/talents/passions. It took me 2 years to grow to the person I am today. While not being employed, I had nothing but time. I worked on myself and let myself grow and growth I saw in a year's time. Looking back to 2017, I was definitely a different person and can't believe all the opportunities and self discovery I would have missed out on if I didn't lose my job.
   
We’ve had a very tough season in 2020. No matter how tough of a time you had, one thing is for sure, you are resilient. You got through it, all 365 days of it. Believe it, you are a warrior. Whether you glide through it with job/financial security or if you struggled with losing your job and having to sell your home, you have moved forward. Every year is a challenge with doing better and being your better self. Take a minute to see your abilities and plan how to move forward into 2021. What will you do this year that will bring you joy and prosper as an individual? 

Until next time, sending you love and positive vibes!

​~Rowena~ ✌️❤️😘