Two months ago, I was laid off from the City and County of Denver after five and a half years of service. Before joining the City, I spent 18 months networking and applying for 38 positions. Working in local government was my dream, and I pursued it relentlessly. I finally started on April 1, 2020—just two weeks after Denver’s COVID-19 stay-at-home order. The years that followed were challenging, meaningful, and deeply fulfilling.

When I learned my position was eliminated, I felt an unexpected mix of emotions. I’d already been navigating personal challenges, and while people say layoffs aren’t personal, they certainly feel personal when you’ve poured your heart into public service. My work is part of my identity, and I want my career to feel purposeful, not transactional.

So what do you do when you experience a major setback—especially when you care deeply about your work, the job market is unpredictable, and life isn't exactly smooth? I don’t have all the answers, but here are lessons I’ve learned:

Network with intention

Everyone says to network, but how you do it matters. Huge events aren’t always the best strategy. What has worked for me is intentional outreach, including the following:

• Schedule informational interviews with people doing work you admire.

• Tell your network what you’re looking for, and ask for introductions.

• Go into meetings with a clear ask, whether it’s advice, a connection, or insight into a role or sector.

Stay humble, know your worth

When I anticipated my layoff, I applied broadly, including to the Governor’s Executive Internship Program, typically for students and early-career professionals. It wasn’t a conventional path for someone with my experience, and yes, it felt awkward at first. But it aligned with my five-year goal to gain statewide experience, and it helped me expand my network. I embraced being an almost-forty-year-old intern and contributed meaningfully. That experience ultimately helped me land a role with the State’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

Rest isn’t wasted time

Capitalism tells us to rise and grind. Unemployment told me to breathe. I initially sprinted through coffee meetings, interviews, and events, but I quickly crashed. So I made space to recharge: sleeping in, walking, reading, savoring slow mornings, and yes, the occasional afternoon glass of wine. Networking mattered—but so did recovery. Balance helped me stay motivated and grounded.

Protect your confidence

Shame hit hard. Answering “So, what do you do?” stung. The internship gave me structure, purpose, and opportunities to refine my story. Support from former colleagues reminded me of my value. Confidence shows up in interviews, networking, and decision-making, so invest in the people and activities that reinforce yours.

If you’re job-seeking, surround yourself with your hype team, reflect on your successes, and remember: someone needs exactly what you bring. Take a breath. Stand tall. Own your experience and your power.