Sunday, July 26, 2009

The Stages of Unemployment

When I first lost my job, I hit the pavement like nobody's business. Even in such a terrible economy, I managed to get about two interviews a week. None of them led to anything except my current position, which I have already resigned from. People were impressed that I even landed interviews, but it was so insulting. I found craigslist posting advertising seeking hot Asian girls, include head shot for places like fucking Starbucks! Can you believe that shit? That's insane to me. In the beginning I ignored such pretentious and insulting ads because I knew I didn't want to be a part of that, but I began panicking and responding. There's nothing like being judged not attractive enough repeatedly to make a girl snap.

Eventually some beneficial interviews took place. I was terrified by the idea of not having a job after I was fired from the salon, but that turned out to be an incredible life experience and opportunity. I would've never learned what I have if things didn't work out in this exact way. Then I found this commission-based job that doesn't agree with me. I was, once again, put into a sticky situation that's unpredictable and frightening for me. But this time I called the shots. I handed in my resignation letter. I singlehandedly voluntarily removed myself from my one and only source of income. I realized, accepted, and have faced what my priorities are no matter how frightening it is. My happiness will come first.

The next day after I handed in my resignation letter, I received two phone calls about potential jobs. One is an interview for a call center that pays $13.50 an hour! This kind-hearted, helpful guy who works at my school hooked me up with a source. I had a feeling I should ask people there if they knew of any jobs. I'm really glad I did. He got back to me so quickly. I have a phone interview scheduled, which I'm confident I'll do well in. I also have a typing interview for a data entry position. Things are finally starting to look up. Maybe it's too early to be so optimistic. But who am I to deny this excitement in me? Besides, even if things don't work out, the very fact that I've been getting call backs lead me to believe that this is bringing me closer to where I'm supposed to be right now. Thanks Zeph!

But wait! It gets better. My friend offered me an Executive Assistant position for his company, which is an incredible opportunity. I would be getting paid to write lists (which I love!) and talking about his awesome products to people who are interested. So I wouldn't be imposing myself on anyone. It'll offer dynamic experiences and opportunities. I know this is something I can do and well, but it's not the kind of chance I'd realistically be given anywhere else. He said that he was looking for someone he can trust and is intelligent and ethical.

Maybe this is a reflection of how flawed my perception is, but it means a lot to me that he regards me so highly. Rickey isn't wrong, but I'm always amazed when people see me for who I am. I wonder why that is. Well, anyways, isn't this incredible? I'm still not sure which direction I want to go which stuns me, but I want to be aware of this confusion. It's important I acknowledge all of how I feel. All I know is that I finally have opportunities I'm actually interested and would like to be a part of. Everything does come full circle.

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