Finally got a job but lost a lot

I worked 28 years with a major IT company (not fang). Notified of layoff in March ‘24 and with some magic didn’t leave until August ‘24. From March to May I was still loyally working- DON’T DO THAT. I wasted 3 months of job search. I also didn’t have a current resume - DON’T BE IN THAT SITUATION. I wasted a month getting that in order.

600 applications using all the methods one would see suggested- I had interviews for a total of 6 positions. 2 offers were pulled back waiting on the election and never resurfaced. Was on unemployment when severance ran out (couldn’t receive benefits until severance ended). But

In December ‘24 I finally got an offer and had to wait for HR process to finish to start in February ‘25. Almost a year. Now what did I end up with?

A job at 1/2 my previous salary. Lost 4 weeks/year of vacation. Most likely lost my Marriage ( amplified all the issues we had - so don’t go there). Had months of major depression and anxiety. Lost my confidence. Basically lost myself in all of this.

Now that I have a job again, I feel better - won’t let it define me again. Trying to figure out how to live on 1/2 of my prior salary - will work out. Hopefully the rest of my prior life will move forward positively- I have issues to resolve. 🤞

Aside from the above advice: If you’re in IT and still have a job - update Linked in to “ looking for work”. If something better comes along seriously go after it. Loyalties to a company be dammed - look after yourself and your family. Start a hobby that you enjoy and better can make you a few hundreds a month - you may need it - while you don’t need it pay off debt - let your fun activities do some good. Know where you will get and build a years worth of accessible cash - be disciplined. Don’t get complacent with your relationships with your spouse, family, friends, or your career- career is last family is forever. Update your resume and LinkedIn in every 6 months minimum. Unemployment will not cover you at all - it’s a joke. Remember that every one in business and politics are looking out for themselves- lf you really look closely you’ll see it - none of them are looking out for you.

I know this is a long post and it’s for myself to get it “off my chest” (see how that works). If anyone gets anything out of it GREAT- good luck to you. Take care of yourself and your family.