Limbo
You ever feel like you’re in some sort of limbo? You know, that place between where you were and where you’re goin’?
Yeah, I know; I’ve been there too – lots of times. In fact, I’m sorta there now.
As you may or may not know, I’m currently “between jobs” (which sounds so much nicer than, say, “unemployed”). And with the current economic climate, like many of us in this particular boat I’m facing the prospect that my normal choice of career may not recover for some time. Alas and darn.
So that sorta leaves me with a few choices, y’know? I can continue to try and pursue the career path I’m used to the most, or (and here’s where the conundrum comes in) find out if there’s something else I can do that’ll pay the bills – Â or better yet – earn a living at.
Needless to say, it would be nice if I could do something I really enjoyed – like, for instance, write for a living. But it’s a pretty rare bird that can just up and make a living at it; generally that sort of thing takes time to build. Not that I can’t pursue it, mind you, but it’s not the only thing I’ve got my eye on right now. Suffice it to say I’ve got several different irons in the fire right now.
But it does bring up today’s question for ya:
If you were suddenly laid off from the job you know best, and the prospect of finding another job in that field were pretty dim – what would you think about doing instead? What could you do?
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Middle Zone Musings is a comfortable place to stop, have a cup of coffee, swap a few stories and share practical ideas for the real world. I don't ask for much, just a bit of your brain every now and then. Have a seat, take a load off, and relax...
Hi Robert, When I left the corporate world I was in limbo for about six months, maybe longer, as I tried to figure out how my freelance business was going to look. I took many false starts before the right model began to take shape. One thing that slowed me down was dividing my focus between my own business and exploring other business/employment options. My best results have come by focusing 100% on what I do best. For you, “writing” is a pretty broad term. Is there a niche, a way to narrow it down? You’ve got tremendous writing skill; I could easily see you working as a corporate interactive media specialist or corporate blogger. Not that those jobs are easy to find, but I guess the question is, what kind of writing would make you happy & put food on the table? Liz Strauss told me several years ago to do what you love for people who love what you do. I think that was great advice, even though finding those people can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. One thing I’ve found, though: as you get into your specialty with full intensity, those people do start to find you!
.-= Brad Shorr´s last blog ..SEO Retrofits for Your Blog =-.
@Brad – I guess that’s one thing I need is a better feel for “what’s out there”, y’know? And what it may or may not look like. I can see me doing those things too, but how do I describe it to folks who don’t know what it is or that they need it – when I’m not sure myself? Those and other questions haunt me a lot about “writing” as a career. Thanks for the hints and tips, though! It’s giving me some ideas, at least!
Tip o’ the hat, Brad!
Robert,
That waiting stage is so painful, but it is also a preparation ground for the next phase of what the Lord is going to do in your life and through your gifts. While waiting would not be our occupation of choice, it does seem to draw us nearer to the Lord because we’re more eager to listen to Him.
Many blessings to you as you listen for His whispers~
Sally
.-= Sally Ferguson´s last blog ..What I Learned From Limits =-.
Aw Robert, that’s a tough one. I feel for you. I don’t think there are quick fixes in the world of writing either I’m afraid. Maybe if you were to doodle some of the other things you enjoy and are good at – like building community, teaching, keeping things light but conveying a serious message. Advising churches on how to use social media?
Sorry I can’t think of any quick answers – it’s taken me many years of wading through limbo to get close to where I want to be, which probably isn’t much help.
.-= Joanna Young´s last blog ..Coaching Questions from the Season: the Essence of Fall =-.
Hi Robert, I’ve been there in limbo myself too but my job means I’m also back there almost every day in one way or another. I work with people in the process of making big career decisions and have done for a number of years. It isn’t easy but it’s incredibly rewarding because I see people taking steady, confident steps forward. Making career choices for themselves and building new directions full of opportunities that can even eclipse their previous careers. IMHO, Brad and Joanna are two great examples of this!
To answer your question, if I were made redundant and had little hope of getting back into my old line of work, I’d do exactly what you’re doing right now. Start asking myself questions about what’s important to me, what I’m good at and what keeps me looking to the future.
It’s a broad, blank piece of paper when we’re staring at it with all these questions and possibilities in mind but we already know so much about work that can help us. And we’ve earned all this knowledge from our career of experiences to date!
A willingness and readiness to explore the past, present and future of our careers is what places insight and knowledge in our hands. All we need in order to make the best choices now and way into the future of our careers.
There are no easy answers out there but you’re often a lot further ahead than you think!
All the best to you for now, Paul
.-= Paul Diamond´s last blog ..Your Career in One Sentence =-.
I’m also finding myself between jobs at the moment and funnily enough I was a writer, but find myself wanting to do something different. What that will be I’m not sure.
.-= Marcus D´s last undefined ..If you register your site for free at =-.
Sally made a really good comment, I really believe the Lord is repositioning me at the moment, possibly for ministry. The waiting in agonising but I know He wants me to do something different than what I was doing, which was online copywriting.
.-= Newbie´s last blog ..Wedding Planners in Spain =-.
Luckily i never get limbo before. BTW, it’s nice to be here. I really enjoy reading the post and the other comments.
.-= Gerald´s last blog ..How Much Is Motorcycle Insurance =-.
Smile! It’s not the end of the world, you know.
Robert, I have been in limbo many times, that time of transition and transformation when it really does appear nothing is happening. It’s not easy to be still during that period when it seems that action is the order of the day. I have now come to appreciate (well mostly) limbo as that necessary place, a time of fertilizing so that new seeds can take root and grow. Question, turn over, explore, and do, limbo is made for that. Get clear on passion and purpose and find ways to use them, the structure will follow. After all you can use your writing gifts in any “position.” It’s easy to get tripped up when we try to put a name or description on it.
.-= Karen Swim´s last blog ..Fruity Marketing Lessons =-.
the time of being Fresher to corporate world is horrible, i mean its too difficult for a person to get job when market is really down and in recession period, so only skills and good grades can help you in such conditions.
@Sally – I know you’re right, of course; there is no comfort like God’s comfort! But the waiting doesn’t seem to make it any easier, though. *sigh*
Thanks for the kind words, Sally, and a tip o’ the hat to ya!
@Joanna – Those are some interesting questions, and I thank you for tweaking the ol’ brain cells a bit. I’ll shake ‘em around and see what else they might rattle loose… (sound of rattling noises)
@Paul – Hey, Bubba! I truly appreciate the sage advice; soemthing I’ve been taking to heart over the last year or so as things have progressed from bad to worse.
Uncertainty is always such a hard thing to most folks to deal with; and sadly, I’m no exception to that one either!
@Marcus – I think we all face this sort of thing at least once in our lives, Marcus.
@Newbie – If you believe that’s true, then keep searching; you’ll find it!
@Gerald – Never been in limbo before? Wow, that may be a first, Gearald! I thought most everyone had at one time or another.
@P. Veazey – Really? Whew, that’s a relief! Thanks, and a tip o’ the hat to ya!
@Karen – Funny how, even though we know it’s necessary sometimes – it still ain’t easy! I like your last thought, though, and will give it some more thought. Last thing I need is to get tripped up here…
Thanks for the very kind thoughts you’ve sent my way, Karen!
@Frank – You may be right, Frank. Thanks!
Sometime ago I too had my share of “between jobs” time.
It was hard. But it too was a time to stop and think a thing or two about my life.
So there is always light in the Limbo.
Boy, does this hit close to home. [sigh]
I would take a closer look at the things I do well, make a list of people who know it, or should know it, and get the word out …
I would make sure to get up and out every day.
I would try to stay positive and I’d stop kicking myself.
I’d be willing to strike up conversations with people I meet, out and about.
I’d go on a really long vacation, involving lots of driving, lots of writing and photos, all without guilt.
I would be grateful for what I do have.
I’d brew my own coffee at home and pack lots of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
I’d make it a point to have chips, salsa and a good margarita on Fridays.
and I’d offer as much help and encouragement to others that I know that are also [ahem] between jobs.
Hang in there, Robert!
Here’s hoping you land on your feet, Robert!
.-= Mark Dykeman´s last blog ..Newspapers, serendipity, and the time to browse =-.
@Algernon – I suppose you’re right; it really is a good time to reflect. Thanks for the thought, Bubba!
@Wendee – All great ideas, Wendee; some of which I’m already in the process of doing. I must admit, though; I never thought of chips and salsa as a viable job-hunting technique – but I’m willin’ to give it a try!
Many thanks and a tip o’ the hat to ya, Wendee!
@Mark – Hey, I truly appreciate that, Mark! A tip o’ the hat back at ya!
Hi Robert,
I guess you could say I’m in a related position: I’m in limbo not because I’m ‘between jobs’ but because I’m ‘before jobs’. I’m at the end of my studies and trying to find someone who’ll recognise my experience and potential and take me on.
Thankfully, learning is one of my passions, so I’m taking full advantage of this hiatus to try some new stuff, boost my CV with volunteer work and generally enjoy the rareness of this position! I’m also finding that the range of jobs I apply for is gradually expanding as I find more areas where I can indulge my passions and use my skills.
I’m not really religious, but the Buddhist saying “This too must end” helps when I’m feeling down about it.
Good luck in your own search, and may it continue to inspire fascinating new writings for us all to enjoy here!
.-= Jez Cope´s last blog ..Ask the readers: do you keep a portfolio? =-.
@Jez – Hey, thanks for the kind words about my words; it’s always great to hear from all my, er, fan. :-\
Looks like you’re already doing all the right things, Jez – keeping your eyes peeled, doin’ stuff rather than merely thinkin’ about it, stayin’ positive… You got a great recipe for opportunity, when it comes a-knockin’!
life is difficult.when i was a student,i did not realize this,while now i gradua te from university,i have to face the world by myself. i have to learn how to survive in this competitive society.but the important is that i donnot loose heart.i have the same feeling “between jobs”as you ,but now i am working hard to earn the life i desire. i believe it is difficulty that makes life more meanful.