I am joining the ranks of the pre-mature retirees via the route of the RIF which seems to be a common place to stand these days. Lots of people in little rooms having hushed discussions, sad faces, quiet fears, slumped shoulders.. I am sure that the cure is the exit interview on the last day, but since I have the malady I do not know what the end is like. As far as the cause; well I have theories but, will leave that to the economists of the world and the thieves.

I am told that there are multiple symptoms of the RIF..tire Pandemic and they vary in each case. There is crying, fear, hate, anger, depression, sadness, joy, relief. I am surprised that there is little violence; and hopeful that we do not progress to that.

Out of the recovery comes another wave of emotions and the need to channel yourself into something good: exercise, volunteer, hug your wife, listen to music, walk in the woods. Then plan your budget, change jobs into a job hunter/gatherer/creator.

For me a time to write grants, plan a couple of iPhone applications, take more classes towards a degree that I want. Read “What Color is Your Parachute” again. Write a new resume, hit the pavement of the internet and job search world.

After almost two decades of walking the same road, the new one is hard to see in the mist. The cure is next friday; wish me luck.

-bob

Sorry to hear that! It sucks, but it happens to everyone these days. Take some time to relax.