Three weeks ago, I arrived at work to discover extensive media coverage detailing the reorganization of the parent media company of the magazine I work for, and that jobs would be eliminated. In the four and a half years I have worked here, I survived three waves of layoffs, usually taking place in December. Since I managed to be working for higher-level executives at each earlier occurrence, I was spared; my job was deemed necessary.

Meltdown in the US

This time however, with the economy in meltdown (falling to pieces here in New York City) and because I am supporting a mid-level manager, it is highly likely that I will lose my job. Other New York-based media companies recently announced that they are folding magazines, cutting budgets and eliminating jobs. Also last Wednesday, the morning we were all celebrating Obama’s win, the mayor of New York City announced that he would be eliminating one thousand government jobs to recover the budget deficit. There seems to be no safe haven for anyone anymore.

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A year ago this July, I decided to embrace my own destiny and start a business. It’s been a joyride of ups and downs, and I’ve learned more than I ever thought possible about myself along the way.

Working at home provides one with a unique sense of independence, but also comes with a massive amount of responsibility. Missed a deadline? You’re to blame. Overextended your business finances? You again. And that boss of yours? Sometimes, she can be a real pain! Navigating the unique dance that is working at home has taught me quite a few things about life.

Freedom and Simplicity

As I juggle the unique balance of productivity and sleep deprivation that is inevitable as a full time writer and mother of two under three, I’ve learned that the freedom I enjoy comes with a price tag. For now, freelancing means that we’re always on a budget. We’re not starving artists, but we don’t live on easy street, either. We’ve chosen to live a simpler life, and in turn, to cut corners fiscally to finance it. We spend time instead of money whenever possible, and our family is stronger for it. Some refer to this movement as voluntary simplicity, but to us, it’s just life.

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Style Statement and Selling Houses from Carrie and Danielle on Vimeo.

As a realtor at a time when  homeowners and prospective buyers are nervous about the real estate market it’s essential Bridget Ross remain rooted in her Style Statement, Elegant Invitation, respectful, gracious and poised at the same time welcoming and connecting with her community. Watch how Style Statement  guides Bridget in building her business and gives her joy.

“Consumers feel the next Crisis” today’s New York Times headline.

Globally conversations are filled with doom and gloom peppered ever so briefly with some brevity. Several of my friends and family are feeling the crunch, (finance and real estate), and wonderfully some people are seeing possibility.  When written in Chinese, the word “crisis” is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other represents opportunity. And opportunity refers to a moment of chance.

What would it be like if we made a pivot from danger to opportunity?

1. The danger of losing a job to the opportunity of creating work you love.
2. The danger of not paying bills to the opportunity of learning to ask for help. My girlfriend shared how strapped she was and discovered  groceries on her door the next day.
3. From a position of lack to appreciation for what we have. Give thanks with your family at dinner or before bed.
4. To be present for that moment of chance; ie. the possibility to learn a new skill in your present job that supports the company in this time of crisis. Be indispensable.
5. Breathe, breathe and breathe.

One of my goals for this year was to deal with my money “issues”. Of course, at the beginning of the year, the issues included worrying about money, feeling guilty about money, having to check the bank account every morning to make sure there’s enough money left to last us until pay day, etc. I had no idea just a few months ago that I’d soon be worrying about total global economic collapse.

But, then again, am I worrying about it? Um. Not really.

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