With the press of the page down button, you’ll be able to confirm that it’s been over two months since I last posted on this blog. Well, I’m happy to officially report (on this blog) that I’ve just recently started a new job back in Boston, and everything is going well. I feel like I’ve adjusted very quickly to my new surroundings, and I’m already looking forward to a productive tenure with the new company.

The six months leading up to this job offer were difficult. The unemployment rate hovered in the 9-10% range for months, and it seemed as though there would be no reprieve. Slowly but surely, the economy improved, bringing with it a less-grim job market.

Before all that, though, the year at work leading up to my September 2009 lay-off was very difficult. Each morning, I pep-talked myself out of bed: today will be different… you’ve done great things for this company… you’ve brought them to the next level… you’re doing the work of three people… you continue to provide value here! When your entire industry is in economic shambles, and layoffs are looming, there’s often little you can do.

My time with that company turned out to be a really great learning experience; working there opened my eyes to a lot of things. Here are some of the lessons I learned along the way, both from personal experiences, and watching those around me.

• Insanity is doing the same thing over and over, expecting a different result.
• You really do reap what you sew.
• Ask for help when you need it.
• Always keep an open eye on the big picture.
• Always have data to back up your decision or recommendation. “Gut feelings” rarely get recognized.
• Be able to hear and give the bad news when needed.
• Research pays dividends. Look before you leap.
• Take care of your employees—they’re the best advocates for your company, and their loyalty pays off.
• A house in order will stand over a house divided.

I set off to Florida in 2005 to get work experience: I gave myself one year, and that quickly turned into four. Having closed this chapter in my life, I look forward to the learning experiences yet to come as I start over.