Your Next Move Starts Here!

“I have two beautiful ladies standing before me, but I only have one photo in my hands. The lady’s photo who is not in my hand is to return to the house, pack their bags, and go home. America’s Next Top Model will be… (America’s Next Top Model, 2003).

If only being fired sounded like this, we may understand people’s thoughts before we are told our contract has been terminated. Instead, it feels like Trump on the Apprentice saying, “You’re Fired!”

Ladies, losing a job can feel like the end of a chapter, but it doesn’t have to define your whole story.

I know hearing “You’re fired” can be some of the most challenging words to comprehend, but it can also lead to the most liberating experience in your life.

Sometimes, setbacks lead to the most powerful comebacks, even if it doesn’t always look like it well. Like the contestants on America’s Top Model, losing the competition wasn’t what defined their lives.

For example, Yaya DaCosta from Cycle 3 built a successful acting career, starring in shows like Chicago Med and Our Kind of People. But, even further, movies like Whitney.

Winnie Harlow from Cycle 21 didn’t win the competition, but she is one of the most popular models of the 21st century.

Toccora Jones from Cycle 3 went on to be a household name modeling for Vogue Italia and has become a body positivity advocate for women.

Had these individuals let the moment of being “fired” from ANTM define them, we wouldn’t be able to see the success that came from their hard work.

I know corporate America, hospitals, and other environments are not like ANTM or the Apprentice, but they all do the same thing.

Sometimes, they have to make decisions that make no sense, leaving individuals feeling stuck between a rock and a hard place.

But tonight’s post isn’t just about gaining a new job after losing one; it’s about self-discovery and redefining what success means to you after job loss.

Because we are all rooting for you, love, and want to see you win, so here are four ways to rebound after a setback.

Honor Your Feelings:

Losing a job can bring up a whirlwind of emotions. If you have watched any shows of ANTM, you know the ladies on the show were torn up, and it was understandable. They busted their behinds to be the next top model, just like you worked diligently to perform at your latest place of employment.

Therefore, it’s essential to take the time to sit with those feelings. You may need to journal, talk to friends, and engage in self-care. But you may also need to pause the job search for a second so you fully process what happened, and it doesn’t follow you into the next role.

Reassess & Refocus:

Ladies, consider this a chance to pivot toward your actual career goals. A career pivot is “when you make a comprehensive career change by using your existing hard and soft skills to transition into a different role” (Hard Skill Exchange, 2024). Therefore, take the time to identify what you want in your next role and create a pros/cons list of the different roles you find on other job platforms.

Most importantly, use this moment to focus on the values and ambitions that matter most to you. For instance, do you value collaboration, respect, independence, or innovation? Do you want to work remotely or in person? Do you want a freelance or per-diem position? Or are you looking for a more full-time role? Choose what is best for you.

Create a Job Search Plan:

Set up small, achievable goals with deadlines. For example, reinvigorate your resume, leverage your LinkedIn, and reach out to your networks. Look for positions that align with the vision you’ve set for yourself, not just any available role, unless necessary.

Honestly, ladies, sometimes it’s better to take on a small job for income or routine until you find something that is exactly what you need. Feel free to start over or take a smaller role for a while.

You got this, sis!

Return with Fire:

This isn’t just about finding a new job; it’s about finding the right opportunity. As you enter this new chapter, remember that this journey is on your terms. Someone firing you doesn’t always mean you’re incapable of the work they require; it may tell you’re no longer able to grow in that environment with the restrictions they offer. You have the skills, the experience, and the potential to succeed in new roles.

So, please don’t lose hope when they say no. Remember that you’re not starting from scratch; you’re starting with previous experiences. Every time you begin a new role, the job may send you to onboarding training, but it’s really pivoting training! This means you’re not just learning the ropes, you’re learning how to adapt your skills and experiences to a new environment. You’ve already seen what they offer you, but in different ways.

Therefore, stay fired up and inspired because the next America’s Next Top Model is You!

I will see you all next week as we discuss our Holiday Lookbook: Cozy Meets Chic Vibes for The Season.

Peace & Prosperity, as always!

Jadis DeShong-Venay

References:

Banks, T., & Barris, K & Mok, K. (2003). America’s Next Top Model [Television broadcast or Television series]. In Ty Ty Baby Productions .United Sates: UPN.

Hard Skills Exchange. (2023 November 28). “What is a Career Pivot? The Complete Guide. Hard Skills Exchange. https://hardskill.exchange/resources/blog/career-pivot/#:~:text=A career pivot is similar,understanding of your changing priorities.