BlackberrySubject232's journey

I just got laid off from my job as a software engineer after three years with the company. I had seen several colleagues let go over the years, so I was somewhat prepared for the possibility, but I thought I had until February next year before it would happen to me. Last week, while I was on vacation, the company announced the layoffs of 10 developers. I was relieved not to see my name on that list, but this morning, upon returning from my holiday, I had a 1:1 meeting with my boss and knew what was coming. While I didn't love the company, the work was easy, the workload manageable, and the pay was great. I doubt I'll find a similar salary again. Thankfully, I had already started planning for this situation. My goal now is to study for a government engineering position, which will pay less but offer job stability and better opportunities for securing a loan for my first house. With the severance package and unemployment benefits, I believe I can manage until I complete the exams for the state job. I can't afford to mess this up, and if necessary, I'll take on any work to make ends meet. This experience has reinforced my belief that you should never sacrifice yourself for a company and always have a backup plan. I don't feel devastated; I feel angry about the situation. My thoughts are with everyone else who has been laid off.