After starting my new job, I was full of positivity. It was the change I needed.
I was hired by a telecommunications company to manage a few teams across my local market, as well as in Northern and Southern California. I primarily worked remotely, though I’d occasionally head out to the field to check in on my teams, meet with the customer, and oversee our projects. I didn’t mind the work—but I was there for way too long.
The excitement and novelty of the role wore off quickly.
Career-wise, I wasn’t making much progress. Financially, I barely moved the needle. Meanwhile, I watched friends and family grow in their careers, land better-paying jobs, and move forward in life. I felt stuck—like I was in a hole with no way out.
The effects of inflation, especially post-pandemic, hit my family and me hard. The stress and anxiety started creeping back in. It wasn’t as bad as what I experienced in my previous job, but I couldn’t shake it.
Over four years, I received just two raises totaling a little over $4,000—and no promotions. I stayed in the role not because I loved it, but because I didn’t believe in myself. I didn’t have the confidence to search for better opportunities. I had no degree. No certifications. No belief that I could do better.
That feeling of being stuck lingered, and with it, so did the anxiety.
Then, our new VP started talking to my manager about the possibility of me relocating to California. But with my salary, there was no realistic way I could move there with my family of six. It wasn’t just a stretch—it was impossible.
So I started job hunting. But nothing materialized. And if I’m being honest with myself, I didn’t try hard enough.
Then, toward the end of February 2024, I got a phone call from my manager. I could tell from the moment I picked up—something was coming. Something felt familiar. I was right. He told me I’d be laid off in two weeks.
That was it. My anxiety hit the gas pedal.