I've Been Downsized: Chapter 6

“I’m Not Dead Yet”

In one of my favorite Monte Python skits the undertaker makes his rounds gathering victims of the plague. At one point, a man comes along carrying an old man to throw on the pile. The old man insists, “I’m not dead yet- I feel fine”, but they throw him on the cart and continue gathering victims.

That’s a bit like the feeling of being downsized. You’re being told your job is done, but you know there is more to do- so much life left. It can be difficult to let go.

A Shout Out to Adam at Best Buy

It happened on a Friday at a Best Buy store in my hometown. I was chatting with Adam while he set up the features on my new phone. Turns out, Adam is in his junior year at my alma mater, Northwood University. He was sharing his thoughts about his future career and all of the opportunity he can imagine. And then he asked me, “what do you do?”

Imagine my stunned silence while I tried to figure out what to say. Should I tell him the truth about my situation and turn the excitement he has into worry? Should I tell him about the job I had and leave out the little bit about being downsized? And then it occurred to me. I’m not dead yet!

My last job may be gone, but I’m still here. So, I took a breath and told Adam all about the great jobs I’ve held, the opportunities I’ve had, and how I’m looking for my next great adventure now, as he is. It was liberating and I left Best Buy feeling better than ever. Thanks, Adam!

Life Goes On

Here is the most important lesson I’ve learned this week. I always knew this, but it took Adam to help me accept it and get off that cart. My life is not defined by a company or title. At the center of my universe is a supportive husband, two wonderful children, and a loyal Golden Retriever.

So, what do I do? I’m a wife, a mother, and a business leader. In my spare time, I teach business and economics to elementary and middle school students. It turns out I have a little more spare time these days. So, this month I’ll be teaching three courses of the Junior Achievement program instead of one. That’s my next adventure. To help shape the minds and dreams of children. What a great opportunity!

Kristina Marsh is an experienced and accomplished marketing, communications, and business process specialist.  Want to connect?  You can reach me at klmarsh74@gmail.com.