Laid off - Day 1

I haven't updated this blog since the first post because I was busy trying to add value to my employer that the Technology Far Side is based. However, I just learned last week that the company has decided to consolidate it's IT operations and is closing the site that I have worked for the past 8 years.

So now I join the many, the proud - the newly laid off. I have many insights to share about my company and how it came to the decision to get rid of over 100 dedicated IT employees but they will have to wait. Instead, I'm going to use this space to detail some of my experiences as a newly laid off employee.

1. I don't have to get up early anymore. This means I get to see my two daughters before they go to school and help get them ready. This can be an enjoyable experience when you're not operating on a deadline.

2. It's easier to be nice. For some reason since I am feeling a little vulnerable, it is easier to nice to everyone I see.

3. I can have conversations with my daughters and teach them about life. Sad to say but when I was employed my relationship with my daughters revolved around being a task master and chauffeur. Now since I can get them places but not have to be anywhere myself, I am freely sharing experiences and teaching them concepts that I might have otherwise.

4. My previous job was a huge weight on my shoulders. I didn't realize it but my previous position invaded my private life to the extent that I was always thinking of how to be more creative, how to find more work, how to increase the efficiency of my process, how to increase the efficiency of the people who reported to me.

5. I have time to wash my car myself. I haven't done it yet but I will.

So that's day 1. I hope to post an update everyday so come back and learn more about being newly laid off.