I’m thrilled to share that I just accepted a full-time position after being laid off in November 2025. I didn't start interviewing until January 2025, which felt like a long wait. The new role requires me to be in the office 4-5 days a week, but the pay is significantly better, and I couldn't be happier to have a job again. During my time off, I learned a lot about managing my health insurance. My COBRA plan was quite expensive, so I switched to a marketplace plan, which turned out to be a much better option for me as a single person without dependents. I found that even when I was doing all the right things like networking, applying for jobs, and improving my skills, it was tough to fill my days without feeling overwhelmed. I set a stopping point for my job search each day and made sure to do something I love, like baking. I also looked for free or affordable activities to stay engaged with my community. It was important to remind myself that this phase was temporary. To keep my spirits up and gain insights, I set up a weekly check-in with a senior member from my old team. We exchanged job leads—she would send me junior positions while I shared senior-level opportunities with her. I also found comfort in watching TV shows where characters faced layoffs but eventually came out stronger. It was encouraging to see that their struggles didn’t define their entire stories. Shows like Modern Family, New Girl, Girls, and Parks and Recreation were particularly relatable. Lastly, I want to emphasize that the job market is tough right now, but being laid off or facing rejection doesn’t reflect your skills or worth. Your education, experience, and certifications are yours to keep, no matter what.