So, Maybe This is Growth?

It’s wild how quickly things can shift. One day you’re deep in work you love that feels so aligned—and the next, you’re saying goodbye and starting over.

As part of a company-wide restructuring, I was recently laid off from Passion Planner. Like so many small businesses right now, they’re navigating the ever-changing tariff situation and changing priorities… tightening budgets and making hard decisions. My role was one of several to be cut.

This isn’t my first layoff—or even my second. It’s the third time I’ve had to say goodbye to a job I cared deeply about. And the truth is, the first two times knocked the wind out of me. I wasn’t ready—financially or emotionally. I didn’t know what was next.

But this time feels different. I’m steadier. Wiser. I know this has nothing to do with my worth or performance. I’ve grown enough to understand that sometimes things end not because you failed, but because the path is shifting—because the company is shifting—and you’re simply caught in the ripple.

This time, I’ve built stronger roots. I’ve been quietly saving, investing, and creating systems that support me. And more than anything, I’ve learned to separate my identity from my work. That’s made all the difference.

Still, this one’s hard to say goodbye to. This role was special. I led from a place that felt fully aligned and authentic, building impact-driven partnerships with purpose and heart. From integrating charitable giving into the customer journey to aligning product launches with philanthropic efforts, I focused on building systems that turn impact into engagement, and engagement into loyalty. I care deeply about doing work that’s rooted in community, impact, connection and care, and this role hit all the marks for me.

I’ve grown in ways I never expected. I’ve learned that building community is powerful—but sustaining it takes care. That true alignment in work—when your values show up in what you do—is a rare and beautiful gift. I’ve also come to understand that clarity, boundaries, and rest are forms of growth too. Meaningful work only carries you so far if you aren’t also caring for yourself. So I learned to rest. To protect my energy. To trust a slower pace. To practice gentle productivity.

So… what’s next? I’m still figuring that out. But because I prepared early, I can move forward without scrambling or second-guessing. I’ll continue growing the business, one step at a time. And wherever this path leads, I’m walking toward it with a full heart.