How You Can Find Self-Discovery During The Freefall Of A Pink Slip

Just about halfway through 2025, we’ve already seen large-scale layoffs in both the public and private sectors. Thousands of people are being let go, pushed off their current professional S Curve into the unknown. 

I’m sure most of us can relate and empathize with the experience. You were moving up your growth curve, and then you walked into work one day, and at the end of it, you just…weren’t moving along that curve anymore. 

It’s a freefall. It was – it is so hard. There's a loss of identity.

But in retrospect, there are practical ways to turn these unexpected shoves into an experience you’ll be proud to look back on, where we turned what we definitely didn’t want to hear into what we needed. There were times when I’ve been let go, and it’s felt like the universe telling me that it was time, when I had been too intimidated to jump on my own. 

First, take a step back. 

Take the opportunity to reflect on the portfolio of S Curves in your life and ensure they are actually taking you where you want to go. Whether you have one hour, one week, or one year before you need to land on your next curve, don’t waste this opportunity to re-evaluate your growth trajectory and your S Curve fit. 

As you consider what’s next, ask yourself (or those you can count on to tell you truths) these questions:

• What are my superpowers? 

• What will I miss doing on a daily or weekly basis? 

• What did I feel driven to do while I was there?

These questions will help you identify your distinctive strengths, the things that energize you but may exhaust others.

Once you’ve gotten some perspective, remember to consider your constraints as well. As you collect data about what your next S Curve might be, try imposing constraints to narrow your options and focus your job search efforts. Try using those constraints as a tool for creation and discovery.

For example:

• I will find a role that aligns with one distinctive strength and one thing I enjoyed doing at my previous job.

• I will find a company that allows me to work remotely at least two days a week so I can pick up kids from school.

• I will find a job that relates to my passion for flying. 

Of course, location, salary, and benefits are likely constraints you will need to impose. Remember, let your chosen constraints help you define your direction without dictating your every step. 

You weren’t planning to leave your old S Curve – yet, you didn’t have a say in the matter. Now, you’re here. Now what? From my experience talking with leaders and innovators on the Disrupt Yourself podcast, don’t let this opportunity pass you by. If you’re looking to better understand the launch point phase of the S Curve model, I’d love for you to check out this post about one of Disruption Advisors’ newest members and how she’s navigating her own launch point.

So take advantage of this opportunity to pause, reflect, and redirect yourself to an S Curve on which you truly want to be. 

When was the last time you checked in on your portfolio of S Curves? 

What constraints can you put in place to help you narrow down your next growth journey?