“I’d like to provide an update on your role in light of COVID-19. Thanks for making the time.” -HR
At approximately 1:30 pm, I received the above email from my HR representative. I knew immediately that my 3 pm meeting would not be good. As a person who typically enjoys being right, I was hoping that I was wrong.
As it turns out, I was not wrong. In fact, I was laid off effective 3 business days from that date.
Even though I had my suspicions, it was still a shock followed by a small pity party I threw for myself with only my cat in attendance (thanks, Cortez)!
As a recent grad and newer (naive) member of the working community, I never considered that I would be laid off. Writing this a few days after the fact, I am not faulting the company for having to make tough decisions, especially considering that I had a junior role and had been with the company for under a year. I am simply sharing the realty for many people right now.
So, as my last day ended, I had to ask myself, “Self, what should I do with all of my free time? I already had more of it because of working from home…but now?”
I feel fortunate because I have Evrything Beachy, which I am so passionate about.
To put a positive spin on this situation I find myself in, I am excited to direct my energy and undivided attention to my business until a time at which I can apply for a job again.
Because admittedly, it’s challenging to devote time to all the things I would like to. For example, I haven’t written blogs as consistently as I would like to (oops).
So if you are looking for things to do or ways to fill your time, especially if you have a small business, I have some suggestions that I have been looking into and implementing, and would love to hear your thoughts as well.
1. Revamp your social media
Whether it’s your personal social media or your business’s. You can change up your Instagram theme for example or take on a new social media, such as TikTok. I am planning a more rigorous posting schedule and committing to using my Nikon camera as opposed to my phone camera to snap my photos.
2. Get creative
As a jewelry designer, I am excited to take the opportunity to get creative with some new pieces. I have more time to play around with different looks and experiment with some new ideas.
3. Join some teams
If you have an Etsy and have not been using the Teams feature, I would recommend giving it a try! It is a community forum where you can support and be supported by other Etsy shop owners (shop and item favorites, boosted traffic, more views).
As a final note, I wanted to say that if you have experienced a layoff or are being negatively impacted by the coronavirus in any way, I want you to know that you are not alone. I empathize with your situation and know that it can be difficult to navigate. Try to make the best of the situation by devoting your time to something you love!
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