Layoffs

Throughout my career, I’ve had countless conversations about career paths with colleagues, mentees, and professionals in transition. In those talks, I often share practices that have helped me personally along the way. But this article is different. It’s transparent and honest. Although I’ve spoken about parts of my story with people close to me, this is the first time I’m sharing it so openly, including my mistakes, lessons, and reflections in a public space. ...

It’s easy, even comforting, to blend in with your badge. We introduce ourselves with our name followed by the company. We join meetings carrying that title. We post with the credibility it gives. But at the end of the day, the company is just where you are, not who you are. You are what you’ve built. What you’ve learned, and taught. You are the reputation that stands when your name shows up alone. You are the value that stays when the badge is gone. ...