#53: The Unemployment Diaries with Ravneek Kaur
On leaving behind self-blame, learning to relax, and how to become Unlonely Together
Laid Off Life is a place of respite for the weary workforce. Whether you’re unemployed, underemployed, or just trying to make it through the workday, let this be your 5-minute mental break from the grind of late-stage capitalism.
The Unemployment Diaries with Ravneek Kaur
If you’d like to be featured in The Unemployment Diaries in the future, email me at laidofflife@substack.com!
Meet Ravneek Kaur, a Product Manager in low-code data collection & management industry.
Thanks for agreeing to share your Laid Off Life journey with us, Ravneek! What was your initial reaction to being laid off, and how did you deal?
My initial reaction to being laid off was challenging. I had always associated my identity with my work, so I struggled to adjust to the lack of a 9-5 structure and felt I wasn't being "productive" enough. However, the layoff also provided me with the opportunity to invest more time in my hobbies, such as going for walks, working out, and watching movies. Looking back, I wish I hadn't been so hard on myself and could have enjoyed that free time more, without the guilt and stress about the future. The initial period was a mix of relief and worry, if that makes sense.
What's one piece of advice you have for someone who is at the very beginning of their laid off life journey?
Focus on the positives. It’s easy to fall into a cycle of self-blame, but try not to stress too much or let your self-worth be affected. One mantra that helped me was “everything happens for a reason.” Before diving into the job hunt, use this period as an opportunity to explore other interests, learn new skills, and work on passion projects you previously didn’t have time for. Essentially, take a break and “relax” in whatever way works best for you before starting your job search again.
What have you found to be the most challenging part of unemployment, both practically and emotionally?
The most challenging practical aspect of unemployment has been finding the best ways to utilize my time effectively. When I was employed, I felt more organized and productive, which has made the transition emotionally challenging as well. I often feel the need to achieve more and sometimes struggle with self-comparison. But I have adopted healthy coping mechanisms, like celebrating small daily wins and taking time each day to step outside for a break from daily responsibilities, which ultimately help me maintain a positive outlook and stay motivated.
What unexpected benefits or personal growth have you experienced during this time?
The past ten months since my layoff have been incredibly transformative. I've experienced exponential growth in mental resilience and strength, as well as developing new skills by finally starting projects I had long postponed due to a lack of time and fear of failure. This period has allowed me to discover more about myself—my likes, dislikes, strengths, and areas for improvement. This self-awareness will ultimately help me find opportunities that truly align with my interests.
What’s one piece of advice your employed self would give your unemployed self?
My advice to my unemployed self would be to have faith in myself and take the leap! Always keep looking for better opportunities and never become stagnant. I used to doubt my abilities, but over the past few months, I've learned that I am more than capable of achieving amazing things, backed by my professional experience and milestones.
What are your daily routines, rituals, and strategies for staying motivated, productive, and sane during your job search?
It was challenging to maintain my previous routine after being laid off, so I created a new one. Initially, I tried to pack too much into my day—job hunting, passion projects, and other activities—but soon realized I couldn't do everything at once. Now, I've compartmentalized my tasks and dedicated specific days to each, keeping my to-do list small and focused.
Living alone, I faced productivity obstacles that inspired me to launch a community and app called Unlonely Together. This group helps like-minded people inspire each other and be more productive.
Additionally, I've rediscovered my love for working out and eating healthy. I enjoy evening walks to appreciate the beautiful weather. And I have started participating in local theatre productions as an actor and backstage volunteer.
Writing has become another passion. I write short stories and started a blog, where I share life learnings, job search tips, and daily anecdotes about staying productive and motivated.
In short, I'm exploring new avenues and discovering what I enjoy most. I believe these experiences will ultimately help me excel in my future job.
What is your dream job, if time, money, experience, and reality were of no consequence?
My dream job would be in a creative field, such as acting, writing, or directing movies. I aspire to work on a documentary exploring the lives of various nomadic communities in remote parts of the world. Additionally, I envision creating a community where people from diverse backgrounds come together to share life lessons and skills, fostering motivation and meaningful, in-person connections through long conversations.
What kind of work are you hoping to do next (in case anyone reads this and has a lead for you)?
While I am currently seeking product manager roles in data collection and management, I am also open to exploring opportunities in different industries. I'm looking to leverage my experience in community-driven projects and the data management field by joining a startup where I can make a significant impact from the ground up. I’m particularly interested in opportunities that involve building innovative solutions, ideally within the entertainment industry. My goal is to contribute to something I’m passionate about, using both my data expertise and creative skills.
If you could have any job, what would it be, and why?
I’d love to be an archaeologist or historian, which would allow me to travel the world and learn about different civilizations, cultures and art.
If unemployment were a competitive sport, what would your unique talent or skill be in that competition?
Run movie marathons…I have had days where I only watched movies - from classics to lesser-known gems which I am proud to have found. My favorite one being Jojo Rabbit, which I recommend everyone watch if you haven’t already. It shifted my perspective on life, especially at the time I was dealing with the job loss. Watching all these movies actually motivated me to write and create my own content.
Remote, In Office, or Hybrid?
I’m all for hybrid! I need my space to work on things that require focus but also love the idea of connecting with co-workers as it makes the job a lot more fun and easier.
Lunch at your desk or take a break and eat properly?
I would like to say “take a break and eat properly” but I never was able to when I was working from home. Taking lunch breaks with co-workers was more fun whenever I would go into the office though. Now, as I adjust to my current situation, I'm making a conscious effort to schedule dedicated meal times in my day.
What are your worthy time wasters? What are you reading/watching/listening to/consuming right now?
I’ve been revisiting The Office re-runs, which I find perfect for background entertainment during boring tasks. Lately I’ve enjoyed some heart-warming movies like Manchester By The Sea, and comedic gems like Ingrid Goes West and have many more on my watchlist. Anthony Bourdain’s travel series No Reservations and Parts Unknown have also been recent favorites of mine.
On YouTube, I’ve discovered some fantastic content creators. I’m particularly inspired by Gawx Art and Life of Riza.
As for reading, I’m currently exploring The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale. I have a growing list of books I’m excited to dive into, with The Second Mountain by David Brooks and The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini at the top.
Tell us about the last Internet rabbit hole you fell into.
The last internet rabbit hole I fell into was researching the Koh-i-noor diamond. I learnt that it once weighed 186 carats! I can’t imagine seeing a diamond that big. The legend goes that its weight was reduced to 105 carats during the cutting process.
Where can people find you?
You can find me on LinkedIn or through my community page on Instagram. Would love to connect!"
Have a question, suggestions, or thoughts? Message me!
Have thoughts about what you read, have suggestions for future topics, or a question you want me to answer? Send me a message!
Become a paid subscriber!
This newsletter is a reader-supported publication. If you enjoy Laid Off Life, consider becoming a paid subscriber. In honor of the dog days of summer, subscribe now and receive 50% off an annual membership.