I got the official call notifying me that I had been laid off while on vacation. We were on the second leg of our bucket list vacation to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

The call came just moments after stepping out of the car as we arrived at the site for our hike we had planned for the day.

As soon as I saw the caller ID, I knew the purpose. I have had to make the same call many times over the years, and I could hear the nervousness in the voice of my manager as she dutifully read the script we required.

It’s the same script I had coached leaders on over the last several years. I felt kind of bad for her knowing what is is like to be on that side of the table.

The call was short, as these typically go—some light details regarding the package and dates. My notification was today, September 17th, 2023, and my separation was not until December 4th. That was a good amount of time, and it was very generous.

Next, I knew that upon my return to work, I would have to clean out my desk and say the usual goodbyes. There were not a lot of so longs to give since most folks sitting around me had been let go the month before. HR does the laying off, and then we are left to lock the doors and walk out last.

I listened to all the information with my wife standing a few yards away.

I was on a dream vacation in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I was determined to move forward and complete our plans for the day. More importantly, I was determined to do this hike in a place of personal gratitude. Thanks for the call, the years of preparation, and for being in this magical place with my wonderful wife.

The end of the hike brought a lesson that helped seal the day. In this video, I tell the story of the day and the person that is helping inspire my new journey.

This is my someday