Chapter 1 – Liberation

Being ‘liberated’ from your career, or being ‘let go’ as society euphemistically describes it, is an experience that can have a profound impact on your life. It can either destroy your world or make it your oyster; the end result often hinging precariously on your attitude and the vicissitudes of fate. It is never easy, that is for sure. Until I fully experienced the harsh reality of joining the ranks of the unemployed, it was difficult to appreciate how exciting or soul destroying it could be. As I discovered, it was a confusing yet intoxicating mix of both. The trick was to have the courage to follow my heart, to turn it into an opportunity for adventure, to look all my fears in the face and laugh at their impotence. It can be the start of a new life, a chance to rediscover lost dreams, an opportunity to slow down long enough for our soul to point us in the right direction. Being ‘liberated’ can be one of the truly great gifts we receive as a human being. However, what gives me the right to be so philosophical? Because, in October 2001, I was ‘liberated’ for what would turn out to be three years. Three years without employment, three years without a salary. In fact, three of the best years of my life!