Persistence and positivity pays off

Five months ago, I was dealt a hand I had never seen before. I was laid off from my job. It was one of the worst days of my life, because I had worked so hard throughout my career to learn, advance, and grow. Suddenly, it just stopped!

I could write about all the emotional stages I went through, but I believe a lot of people who have gone through a job loss will understand those steps to recovery.

For me, I was faced with three paths.

1. I could have just remained angry, pointed the finger at people who did me wrong and blamed them for my misfortune.

2. I could have had an indifferent approach and just not cared, veg on the couch, and felt sorry for myself. Eventually, I would become depressed and complacent.

3. I could reflect on what happened, and learn that maybe this was an opportunity to reset my career priorities. I would do some self evaluation and learn to navigate in this uncomfortable zone. But in the end, I would be better for it.

Can you guess which path I took?

If you guessed No. 3, you are correct. I am so proud of myself for taking that path, because I can now say a new opportunity came along. I'm three weeks into my new position as associated creative director at DKY, a brand marketing, advertising, and PR agency.

Within the five-month transition, I really focused on improving my professional skills as well as my mental state. I read more; I became a better dad, husband, and friend; I exercised more; and I just stayed positive.

From a professional standpoint, I networked more; I took advantage of programs that helped me get more educated in skills I was lacking in; I redesigned my website; I picked up freelance work, which helped maintain the skills I already had.

I want to make a personal shoutout to all the people I networked and got to know. Your advice, encouragement and ideas where so key in helping me move into my next career stage. I want to go one step further and thank Dan Walker for his empathy and advice. Also, Linda Drake listened to me when I was unsure about a lot of things in my career, and she got me through the toughest part of the transition. I also made great connections with people in my St. Thomas Digital Marketing Certification class like Brian Voelker, and lead instructor Gino Giovannelli. Finally, I really enjoyed networking with the Marketing Pit Crew, the people in that group were so helpful and knowledgable, and I always looked forward to our calls on Tuesday mornings.

All of this helped me join a team at DKY that has a passion for serving its clients with integrity and professionalism. This is my first crack at working in an agency, and the culture at DKY is exactly what I need to grow, learn and serve clients the best I can.

Now that I have landed a position where I am part of a great team, I also want to help return the favor and help others the best I can in their career path. Reach out to me, and let me know what I can do to help you. I'm happy to help.