the creative break you didn’t ask for

why the end of one chapter might just be the start of your most creative one yet

This past weekend, I met up with a friend for coffee who shared that he had just been laid off. Having experienced a layoff myself, I understand all too well the disappointment, fear, and uncertainty that come with being let go from a job. As a quintessential do-gooder and someone who holds high expectations for myself, being laid off can deeply impact your self-esteem. It’s easy to take it personally and spiral into thoughts like, “Could I have done more?”, “Did I do something wrong?”, or “Am I a failure?” — all the intrusive questions that surface as you try to make sense of what happened.

But instead of lingering in the disappointment, my friend shared how this unexpected turn opened a realm of possibilities he hadn’t even considered. He and his wife sat down and figured out how long they could comfortably cover expenses, giving him the freedom to pursue more creative endeavors. He’s now exploring investing in a startup, diving into hobbies, and looking into other avenues that might generate additional streams of income down the road.

When I work with creatives and entrepreneurs, one of the things I focus on is encouraging them to give themselves permission to explore and lean into the process of creativity to rediscover what lights them up. As a longtime admirer of Julia Cameron’s work (and having taken several of her workshops), I always recommend The Artist’s Way. It’s a powerful book filled with techniques and exercises designed to help people regain confidence and tap into their creative talents.

While I fully recognize that taking time off to explore creative pursuits or start a business isn’t a luxury everyone can afford, being laid off often forces a perspective shift. It can be an invitation to consider different ways of living and earning, including paths you might never have explored if life had stayed on its expected track.

A Few Questions to Consider

If you’re navigating a layoff or feeling the pull toward something creative, consider asking yourself:

  • What parts of myself have I put on hold?

  • What opportunities might this unexpected pause be creating?

  • What would I explore if money and security weren’t factors?

  • What lights me up, makes me lose track of time, or leaves me feeling more alive?

  • What small, imperfect step could I take toward something that excites or scares me?

Sometimes, the most surprising detours reveal who we’re meant to become.

© Alana Foy 2025

Alana Foy

WNTR ROSE is a personal care brand that exists to support and empower individuals on their self-care journey. We have brick & mortar, Modern Apothecary & Indie Boutique located in the heart of the Golden Triangle Creative Arts District in Denver, Colorado.

https://wntrrose.com
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notes from the long becoming

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the art of falling apart