Thursday, September 22, 2011

Restructure

Sometimes life throws a curve ball and the tricky thing about curve balls is, no one ever sees them coming. Out of the blue, when it's least expected... curve ball. Today, I cried at work for the first time in over 12 years. I fought every inch of my being to hold it back. Smiled. Nodded along in bemusement. Refrained from opening my mouth for as long as I possibly could. But in the end, the tears had to fall. Some situations are simply too overwhelming to remain stoic. Another restructure within my company and this time, my role is on the chopping block. 

I have lived through dozens of restructures and until now, have always been lucky. They are part and parcel in a large company and many friends and colleagues have experienced the exact gut wrenching feeling I faced this morning. My poor manager and human resources representative (who also happens to be a friend), looked pale and shattered as they delivered the news. I felt so deeply for them. No one ever wants to be the messenger. And that's precisely what they were. So many emotions surged through me. I felt numb. In a dream state, where I heard the words, but none of them actually registered. When I did eventually respond, I couldn't make sense of what I wanted to convey. Instead, I smiled and blubbered and nervously laughed and smiled and blubbered and flapped my hands around my face, in a vain attempt to cool the prickly hot sensation. It was everything I imagined a redundancy conversation to be like and more.

This is the biggest round of role redundancies in our company, since the GFC hit in 2008/09. 'Streamlining' and 'cost cutting' have been part of the theme bandied about for weeks now. In my heart of hearts, I always knew this role was a dream come true for a Mama seeking part time employment. I've had it good. But all good things must come to an end. I understand and accept this. I am not the only one thrust into this boat of uncertainty. Friends of mine have also been informed about the fate of their roles today. Now, we're left with decisions and options and thank goodness, there are options. This company does do the redeployment thing well. So now I'm just letting the dust settle on the day. Reviewing the situation. Thinking rationally. Staying composed. Because it isn't the worst thing in the world, more a bump in the road. The right path will become apparent before too long and I'm blessed to have a wealth of incredible people to help support me along the way. 

20 comments:

  1. That's terrible news.
    Your brave and rational attitude is fabulous.
    Good on you.
    As you say, things will be clearer after a settling period.
    So sad to hear this was your day.
    x

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  2. Sorry to hear about your bad news.

    Continue to stay positive!

    I say a drink is warrented but since you have little ones, kissing and hugging them is a whole lot better.

    Abbie

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  3. So sorry to hear this. I can totally understand how you reacted - I'd be 100% the same. Will this mean a break for work for a while? Hope things all play out for the better J. Cazxx

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  4. Oh noes! NOT good! Seriously how many restructures can one place have? Thinking of you and hoping that something works out. Somehow. You know it will - promise!

    There is NOTHING worse than losing your job this way though - you can't help but take it personally can you. Been there. Hang in there lady friend, sending you lots of love x

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  5. Oh no what a horrid tricky curve ball! I hate that tears creeping up on you, eyes prickling, hot flush sensation. Hoping as this door closes another will open and things will look positive again soon xxx

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  6. My heart goes out to you!

    I hope this becomes the beginning of something incredibly positive for you. You just never know when those curve balls are thrown into the mix for the better. I hole this is one of those curve balls.

    Thinking of you xx

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  7. Oh, I am so sorry to hear this.
    You write it so well, I felt like I was there with you.
    And your positive attitude is beautiful.
    Only good things can come... x

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  8. Oh gosh that's rough, but I'm sure you are right to be positive. New and exciting opportunities could be right around the corner.
    I'll be thinking of you and sending positive vibes!
    Sandra x

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  9. Oh I know exactly how you're feeling. I was made redundant about 6 years ago. It's hard not to take it personally.

    I'm a believer that things happen for a reason and I'm sure a better path will form for you. They did for me.

    xxx

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  10. Oh Julie! What a horrid shock, lovely girl. I am *so* impressed with your attitude to it. What grace under pressure! I agree with Corinne. Crossing fingers and toes for you J x

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  11. I have no doubt that this will all work out wonderfully. You have such a brave, strong and positive attitude towards this curve ball that I am sure this will be ok. Hope you have a good weekend and that you get some great news soon.
    Thinking of you

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  12. That sux but out of bad something good will come, your positive att will serve you well!!

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  13. Hi Julie..a sign of the times isn't it? I think lots of jobs are on the line at the moment. I am sure doors will open for you and until then you'll at least have some extra time with your boys. I hope peace will come to you quickly.

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  14. Oh how dreadful Julie! What a way to ruin your Friday! Hope you can work things out and move forward from here. Sending big hugs your way... If only I baked something better than a $2 packet mix, I'd whip it up for you and pop it in the post!

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  15. Oh no you poor thing :-(
    It's horrible news but I'm sure you'll look back on this once you've moved on to bigger things and realise it happened for a reason. You're so positive which will bring amazing opportunities your way lovely xox

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  16. oh you poor girl.... but you know what? I smell opportunity for you; there is something bigger. and better. and more fulfilling out there for you. Youll find it. So in the meantime, soak in the yuckiness of this situation but know this is not the end of the road but merely a corner and just around the bend is something amazing. I wish you the very best of luck x

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  17. Really sorry to hear that. xx

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  18. Hoping the weekend has provided some time for the 'dust to settle'. Terrible news and I can understand the tears. You have written so beautifully here...I am sure something better is waiting just around the corner.

    Hugs xoxoox

    Kellie.

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  19. Oh Julie, even amongst the pain you must be feeling, I am amazed at how clear you think and how beautifully you write it.

    I wish these things didn't happen. And I wish that this hadn't happened to you. But I do know that everything has a reason, and you never know what the future holds (something more amazing usually!).

    Much love and hugs to you beautiful girl. xx

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  20. Oh sweetheart I am so sorry. I know you will be ok, but right now it is hard and painful. Hugs and love to you. Take your time and be kind to yourself. xxxxx

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