When you are one of many thousands who have been laid off.30 years ago "being laid off" vs. "fired" was so rare that you would have had a scarlett letter on your resume and black balled from your next job. 15-20 years ago, it became more acceptable - translated: "nothing to be ashamed of."  What helped cement this enlightened orientation, in 1993, is when companies like IBM initiated their first round of involuntary layoffs, marking the end of an era.I attended my high school reunion this past weekend - yes, omitting the year :)!

When I asked one of my classmates what she did for a job, she reluctantly said, "I was hoping no one would ask me that. This job didn't work out so I don't know what I am doing now."I said, "Say you are in a career transition." She replied, "Oh that's good." She seemed relieved to have the words without needing to give a long explanation. There is no stigma these days to those two words, "career transition."

It doesn't have to be any more clear than that - if it's not right now.And that is Okay. You are in good company with great companies - and many of your neighbors.