Unemploymentville, Population: Me

From the title of this column, you'd think I’m out of touch with the fact that scores of people across the country are currently in between jobs. I know I'm not alone, but I am the only one in my circle who is presently not working, which FEELS lonely. And it sucks.

To recap, on March 27, 2025, my position as local news editor at Globe Gazette in Mason City was unceremoniously eliminated. Panic and tears set in immediately as I heard the words come through the phone. My life as I've known it came to an abrupt end, and for the first time in 17 years, I am without a job, without an income, and without a clue as to what's next.

Sounds bleak. And it is. Putting together an up-to-date resume package was a task. Applying for unemployment has been a pain. Not knowing where my next paycheck is coming from is scary. The process of starting over and finding a new and meaningful career path is daunting.

I'm overwhelmed as I sift daily through job listings for relevant work. Am I qualified? Does it pay enough? Will I be personally fulfilled? I only hit the apply button here and there, but am I doing the right thing by being discerning when it comes to which rings I toss my hat in? I've got a little in my savings to carry me though for a while, so I have some time to be choosy, and I can only pray this is a winning strategy.

I'm doing everything I can think of to prove myself an attractive candidate for the positions I'm interested in pursuing. I have put a ton of time and effort into building an engaging portfolio, creating profiles on work-search websites, posting regularly to LinkedIn and my other social media accounts. I have been reaching out for help in finding my way around the world of unemployment. I'm even giving myself unpaid writing assignments in order to stay busy and keep my name out there.

I've created a full-time job in full-time job searching.

A ton of folks have told me that I'm on to bigger and better things — that it's a blessing in disguise to be let go. This is likely true, but it's been hard to see it that way. I was in love with my job. I adored my newsroom, respected and appreciated my editor, enjoyed my colleagues, and I felt like I was really a part of something important. I'm still grieving the loss of it all.

But that definitely doesn't mean I'm without hope. Each time I find a promising lead and upload my resume, I bask in a rush of serotonin, excited at the possibility this one might be THE one. I'm flushed with enthusiasm and feel renewed in my search. With every confirmation letter in my inbox, I feel a sense of accomplishment and my belief in myself is affirmed.

Maybe I'll get something in place in a few weeks — maybe a few months. But during this down time, I'm going to spend as much of it learning new things, nurturing my mind, and sharpening my skills. I'm going to put my all into landing on my feet after having the rug pulled out from under me.

Aside from unlimited time to nap and eat Oreos, unemployment really does suck (like, a lot.) But...it's also forced me to realize my potential. It's driven me to take charge and step onto the playing field. I've had time to examine myself and my worth. I know I have strong, desirable capabilities, and I have faith I'll soon be gainfully employed in a role that is rewarding and compensates me for my talents.

Will it compare to my amazing experience at the Globe? I don't know. But will it be a fulfilling new journey? I'm most certain of it.

Lisa Grouette is a proud member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative, a group of Iowa writers, authors, and content producers. If you enjoy hearing from Iowa voices, please consider helping to broaden their reach with a paid subscription. Your support goes a long way.