When Life Throws a Curveball at You

Have life ever had a curveball thrown at you?

There are many different ones that could be thrown your way. A sudden break-up, a falling out with a friend, the death of a loved one, an unwanted pregnancy, or a tragic event happening to you and/or a loved one are just a few possibilities that could happen when you least expect it. Even if you suspected something in the first place, the realization that something bad really did happen can still be a vicious blow that you never saw coming.

For me, this occurred just a few days ago. I started a new full-time in-house job with a cool company. I had the opportunity to receive benefits after a period of time while doing something I love. I left my previous job on good terms and then began the new one.

Then I was suddenly let go less than a week later.

I can honestly say that I didn’t see it coming. I thought things were good- not perfect, but good- and I was trying to get used to a new office environment. I liked the few people I interacted with, and I was told that I was doing a good job. So to lose it so suddenly and so soon after starting felt like a sharp punch in the stomach.

I could’ve cried about it. I could’ve thrown a fit over what had just happened. I could’ve tried to argue my case for them to keep me on. Instead, I swallowed my pride and left with my dignity (somewhat) intact. Despite how depressed the news made me, I had no choice but to accept what transpired.

So, what happens in the aftermath of a curveball’s blow?

Depending on your situation, there are many different things that could happen. Plus, everyone’s different in how they handle terrible situations. For me, losing my full-time job means that I can dedicate myself to my freelance work, and work on passion projects. Some may consider me unemployed, but I’d argue that I’m not. My work situation is just “non-traditional”, and that’s okay. Outside of work, I have more time to improve myself both physically and mentally. That means going to the gym more, eating healthy food that I can make whenever and focusing more on myself.

The biggest thing is to focus on what’s next. When it comes to me, I have two ideas right now- find a part-time or full-time job in or around my field; or find a part-time job and save money to go to school. Both are viable options for different reasons, each with their own respective pros and cons. As of now, I’m still exploring each avenue and figuring out what I’m going to do. It’s going to take time before I ultimately decide what’s next.

When life throws you a curveball, you have no choice but to accept what’s happened. But it’s your actions that matter most. How you move past it and adjust to whatever changes are necessary is up to you alone. Take the necessary steps to keep yourself and your sanity in check. Just remember that things will eventually get better. It could take days, weeks, months, or even years, depending on your situation. While time can heal most wounds, taking care of yourself and doing what’s needed to get better will also benefit your physical and mental health.

I know that this is a longer and more personal post than usual; and if that bothers you, I apologize for that. But after everything that happened to me a few days ago, I just needed to get this off my chest. Perhaps this will help you or someone you know. If so, please let me know in the comments!

Until then…I’m sending best wishes to all of you, my lovely readers.

xo,

Elizabeth