After getting laid off, I used my free time to write my first novel. It helped me figure out what I wanted from my next job.

The author (not pictured) wrote a book after getting laid off.

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• Last year, I was laid off, and I suddenly found myself with a lot of free time.
• I decided to do something I've always wanted to do. I started writing a novel.
• In the process, I learned a lot about myself and what I wanted from my next job.

In November 2024, I found myself on the receiving end of a companywide downsizing, or layoffs. The news hit hard at first. Those 15 minutes between getting the message (you know...