A Coffee Conversation That Hit Home
Reframing the story when the chapter ends unexpectedly
The other morning I sat down for coffee with a sharp, seasoned executive—someone who’s spent years scaling companies and leading teams with real impact.
After a strong run, his role was caught in the crosshairs of a recent private equity buyout.
He’s incredibly talented… and understandably bitter about how it ended.
I get it. Being laid off hurts—especially when it blindsides you. The reasons can feel flimsy (or downright clueless), but that doesn’t soften the reality: you’re out of a job, heading into the holidays, and facing the awkward conversations with friends and family about “looking for what’s next.”
Someone will inevitably say something tone-deaf, not realizing you’re carrying the weight of it all. It’s a heavy, far-from-festive place to be.
If this has happened to you recently, or if you know someone walking through it—reach out. Listen. A simple “I’m here” can mean more than you think.
Over coffee, I realized this executive already has a powerful story—he just needed to shift the spotlight away from the rough ending and back onto the real wins: the growth he drove, the teams he built, the results he delivered.
No need to dwell on the investors’ decisions or the messy details. Just a clean pivot: “After an incredible run, I’m excited about what’s next.”
Whatever chapter you’re closing in 2025—whether it’s a layoff, a restructure, or simply knowing it’s time to move on—don’t let the rearview mirror define the next mile.
Look forward.
Reframe the narrative.
Spend less time obsessing over resume fonts and bullet points… and more time crafting the story you want to tell about why you’re ready for what’s ahead.
Reach out to the people who’ve seen your work up close—the ones who know your impact. Reconnect. Build momentum.
Here’s to closing 2025 with grace and stepping boldly into 2026.
I’m rooting for you—and I look forward to seeing where you go next.
Cheers! 🚀