Hello? Is this thing still on?
The last couple of months have been strange. They felt full, but looking back I can’t really pin down what they were filled with. I’d been feeling worn out, physically and emotionally exhausted, but couldn’t seem to admit that to myself or to really figure out what to do about it.
Then, two weeks ago, the company I worked for decided to eliminate my position for boring and corporate reasons – budget issues that resulted in restructuring. Blech.
Getting laid off through no fault of your own looks better on paper, but hearing it and living it out doesn’t hurt any less. I cried myself to sleep several times over the last couple of weeks, including Friday night after my last day at the company. I spent the weekend doing things that made me happy, trying not to think about all of the adulting that comes next.
Then I woke up this morning feeling… calm. The break I needed but couldn’t admit to needing is here. I have savings and unemployment and some odd jobs to keep me afloat. I have a supportive family and caring friends. And now I have space… to think, to regroup, to refocus, to figure out what my life is like after two big, scary, painful losses. A friend suggested calling this period a sabbatical — a rest from work, or a break — which actually sounds just about perfect.
As all of this was happening, I was reminded of a project I saw last spring that piqued my curiosity. The 100 Day Project is a free, global art initiative where people around the world commit to doing something creative every day for 100 days (April 4 through July 12). I’m not really an artist, so I wouldn’t have immediately pegged this as something I would be interested in trying. But last year a blogger I follow participated via writing and photography… both things I like and want to make more time to do.
After some hemming and hawing and brainstorming, I finally settled on what I think will be a good project for this season of my life: 100 Days of Books. For the next 100 days, I am going to try and post a photo of a book I’ve read, along with a brief review, over on Instagram (@kimthedork). This gets me back in the habit of writing reviews, gives me a chance to work on my book photography, starts creating a sort of routine, and should be both portable and inexpensive. Winning all around.
Truth be told, I am not great at following through on long-term projects like this, but I’m starting out optimistic, full of ideas, and with a lot more time on my hands than I might normally have, so… here’s to a giving it a shot.
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Life has certainly kicked you around a bit. I don’t know how I stumbled on your blog, but here I am. Looking forward to the 100 days of books!
I look forward to following this project of yours!
I also look forward to seeing where this new journey takes you!
I had not heard of this project so, thank you for highlighting it on your site. I look forward to seeing your reviews and photos, exciting to plan something like this. It is an unrest of circumstances that you were laid off but a sabbsounds like just the thing right now. Regroup, go forth and be creative, Kim. 👍
I’m so sorry to hear about your job, but am excited for you and your new opportunity…and the space to mentally regroup that you need. Looking forward to following your project on Instagram!
I’m sorry about the job, both in personal and in larger terms. It’s worrying to see so many print journalism sources going under. And it’s always hard to reassess what you “do.” A sabbatical sounds like a good thing.
Oh poor you. You’ve had a rough time, but you know what? You’re strong, courageous and smart so it will all work out in the end. I’ve been laid off (or RIFd) three times and it really sucks every time. I think your idea to use it as a sabbatical is a great idea. This time is for you, my friend. Again, I’m so sorry about the job situation, but perhaps it’s a gift in its own way. Sending good thoughts your way. Liz
I like your project! And a break might be just the thing. Still if I hear of opportunities for you, I’ll let you know.
You poor dear… Will this shit storm ever end for you? But I really hope you can get something out of your time off. Some self-focus is usually the ticket. And feel free to come visit if you’d like a weekend away!
You definitely have been through a lot and despite now the lay off I am glad to hear you have support enough to focus on you! I hope you enjoy a lot of rest and finding your way back to what brings you joy. I think this project will be a lot of fun and hope you’ll keep us posted! Hugs!
This last year has been a rough one for you but I have a feeling you’re going to come out tougher and stronger because of it. I’m sending hugs your way.
I love that there is usually a word to make a bad situation seem better. In your case, “sabbatical” sounds peaceful and regenerative. I hope that the time off turns out to be just that!
I sure wish the tough stuff would ease up on you, but I continue to marvel at your strength and grace.
Sending you good wishes as you enter your sabbatical — and looking forward to your 100 Days of Books!
I’m sorry about your job and yet another loss but the break sounds much needed and I love your project!!
As if you needed yet another thing to add to your worries!!! It sounds like you have a great plan though and I absolutely agree with those who had said to look at it as a sabbatical. You totally deserve one, more than you probably realize.
Good luck and I look forward to seeing your pictures on IG!
What awful news, on top of everything else. I’m so sorry you’re having to deal with this. But thinking of it as a sabbatical and using the time to regroup sounds ideal and much needed. Hope the project will give you just the right amount of routine and opportunity for creativity. I’ve been trying to get back into (or just into) using Instagram, so I’ll look for your posts there!
I’m really sorry to hear about the job loss. Been there several times myself and it’s never an easy thing. But, as you noted, there are some positive aspects to having this time to reflect and refocus, especially with the loss of Nate. I think #100Books sounds like a great project to help ignite your creativity and get you back into the groove of blogging or whatever!
I’m excited to see you posting again, but sorry to hear that you’ve been going through a tough time with your job. I’m glad it’s turned out to be something that could be good for you and give you time for some self care though. I hope you have a ton of fun with your reading project and enjoy the break!
feel bad to hear about your job. But happy your new opportunity.
Bless you! I’ve been laid off a few times, it sucks and sometimes it is truly the best thing ever. Enjoy that time off to regroup and clear the head and fill the heart. Been thinking about you – did you maybe respond to me on something/somewhere? THANKS! 😀 Sorry I’ve lost it… was it on LinkedIn? I am looking forward to your thoughts on Dark Money.