What About Your Frieeeeends?

oh my god. dudes. i am one of the luckiest girls in the world. i am surrounded by genuine, awesome, supportive people in my life. and i am so grateful, so thanks, dudes.

for those of you who haven't heard da' werd yet, i got laid off yesterday. it was my 3-year mark in january - where i was wasting away in corporate america, as an account supervisor for a communication event planning company. it was far from my dream job, but despite my lack of passion, it was tolerable and not too bad of a gig. decent salary, benefits, met some great people. but, of course, the company was hit with a new VP and "restructuring plan," which resulted in me and a few others being laid off.

it happens.

i'm being extremely positive about the entire situation now though. i realize with the help of uncle sam and a devoted job hunt, i'll be on my own two feet again in no time. but first - i'm going to take the next month for some much needed self reflection, re-evaluation of what i am passionate about, and figure out some sort of life path. re-charge my batteries, if you will.

i'm going to write, dudes. i'm going to network. apply for some internships at local venues. introduce myself to people in the chicago music scene. get out there! i've got a good start, already know some pretty good folks in the scene. focus on reviews. revamp my resume. pursue my passion! sxsw will be a great networking experience, im feeling good about it. if, after, my 30-something day plan, i'm still where i'm at today, i'll rejoin my fellow corporate bees and get a day job. but who knows? i think this will be great for me mentally. if i don't land a job at a venue or as a writer, fine. there's no shame in bartending or serving for a bit. meet some new folk, get a job where i don't sit on my ass for 9 consecutive hours. help me get back to my ideal physical shape, mental state, you know - be happy?

i'm excited. for reals. sometimes it takes involuntary action to get where you need to be. i got laid off, ok, that sucks. but now i have this opportunity to really do what i want whereas i wouldn't have had the guts before.

and plus, i have excellent friends. last night all my peeps joined me at a spectacular concert at one of my fave venues. phantogram was incredible, and it was amazing being with everyone. getting laid off = pity free drinks! everyone was so compassionate and supportive. drinks were had. dancing commenced. hugs and high fives. lots of supportive text messages. i just can't thank you all enough. i love you all so much. thanks for helping me  start my new life. i'm pretty excited. . . friends, family, a great boyfriend, a cuddly kitty, and now finally - i can focus on what i WANT in life and deserve.

there, that's my sappy segment for the day. stay tuned for updates on jodi life path in the near future. . .