#how to handle job layoffs

[mentorshelly]

3 Key Benefits of Outplacement Services for Employers

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, navigating workforce changes can be challenging for employers. Outplacement services play a crucial role in supporting both organizations and their employees during times of transition. MentorShelly Consulting is at the forefront of providing compassionate, effective outplacement services. Here’s a look at the top five benefits of choosing…

[bunabi]

hi any advice for a person who's trying to become a professional artist? everywhere I look in any art adjacent industry people are losing their jobs left and right,being underpaid or are freelancing while working a side job,I swear the only ppl doing well are the ai art bitches…I feel like I'm aboard a sinking ship 🥲🫠

I applied to multiple postings yesterday and honestly I don't know anymore 🫠

The illustrator + 2D generalist + concept artist hiring pools are pretty full right now with all the layoffs

Without connections or an insane online following idk how students and entry-level folks are supposed to make it anymore

Recommendations through positive word-of-mouth from my previous clients has been keeping me afloat so far + commissions + patreon, and I'm blessed with a super supportive parent; if I didn't have those things — and if I was able or willing to do a 9-to-5 office job— I would not be in a position to handle this

And honestly AI is a huge issue, don't get me wrong, but it plays a small part of why these creative industries are collapsing.

It's the unforgiving hours, the low pay, the burnout, the layoffs disrupting entire chains of communication, sudden project cancellations due to trend-chasing and investor expectations and internal politics, the looming uncertainty of the future. The unsustainable profit-first infrastructure is just finally buckling I fear.

Possible workaround: pop off as a fan artist and build a following large enough to subsist on subscriptions. Make a new draw-with-me tiktok every other day and/or stream for five to eight hours a day three times a week. I am in no way joking about this. It's a lot of work to get there but at least it yields consistent results. 🧍🏾‍♀️

[marta-bee]

News of the Day 4/3/25: Health is Wealth

I wish I could call this an exaggeration. Health and Human Services, the US government agency that handles most of our public health, medical research and Medicaid/Medicare administration, previously had 82,000 employees; they're looking to fire 20,000, so that's nearly a quarter. They wish they were only being decimated.

As upset as I am for the people being fired (so inhumanely and haphazardly!), the real concern is the work they won't be able to do any more to keep us healthy and safe. I'm all for making things more efficient, but truly, there's only so much fat to cut.

RFK's unique (*coughs*) health priorities and his downplaying vaccinations and other established medicine, and this becomes a real mess. Trump's pauses on university funding over alleged campus anti-semitism, which a lot of goes to medical research done by graduate students, really isn't helping either. My inner prude wants to use my grandmum's favorite PG swear, fuster-cluck, but given all the mess with bird flu that just seems in poor taste.

More news coverage of all the cuts and their impact below the cut.

Programs hit by HHS restructuring, other recent funding cuts

'People are going to die': Physicians say CDC 'effectively dissolved' after mass firings. (X)

USDA cuts hit food banks, risking hunger for low-income Americans (X)

HHS fires entire staff of program that helps low-income people afford heat and air conditioning. 

RFK, Jr., Wants to Make Baby Formula Safer, but Trump Budget Cuts Imperil That Effort (X)

Trump Administration Abruptly Cuts Billions From State Health Services. States have been told that they can no longer use grants that were funding infectious disease management and addiction services. (X)

RFK Jr. to gut vaccine promotion and HIV prevention office, sources say (X)

RFK Jr. Moves to Close Administration For Community Living. The shutdown, part of wider cuts, will mean “more people forced into institutional settings.” (X)

NIH is the largest funder of cancer research. Here's how the Trump administration cuts could impact patients. (X)

RFK Jr. Expected To Lay Off Entire Office Of Infectious Disease And HIV/AIDS Policy

Trump administration cuts FDA staff handling bird flu outbreaks. Federal regulators were responsible for recalling pet food contaminated with bird flu, which killed household cats. (X)

Kennedy Guts Teams That Share Health Information With the Public (X)

US health agency layoffs gut mine safety, infertility and smoking programs

HHS layoffs hit Meals on Wheels and other services for seniors and disabled

Dropping U.S. Biodefenses: Why Cuts to Federal Health Agencies Make Americans Less Safe from Biological Threats. (X)

Johns Hopkins to eliminate 2,000 jobs in response to DOGE-cut funding. (X)

RFK Jr.’s HHS Just Dismantled a Center Focused on Efficiency. (X)

The Mass Firings come for HHS. They wish they were only being decimated.

The Trump administration restructures federal health agencies, cuts 20,000 jobs

Top US vaccine official forced to resign, reports say

Fauci’s Successor Put on Leave as RFK Jr. Reshapes Agencies (X)

‘Humiliating and degrading’: HHS employees learn of layoffs when their ID badges stop working (X)

Veterinarians working on bird flu, pet food safety are fired in HHS purge. (X) Among those laid off were employees in a center that has played a key role in the response to the bird flu outbreak, according to three FDA staffers.

It’s not just low-level researchers. Five NIH institute directors and numerous lab heads ousted in unprecedented shake-up. Layoffs include scientists working on sickle cell, neurological disorders, pandemic preparedness. (X)

Current Public Health Crises (Measles, Bird Flu, Vaccine Hesitancy, etc.)

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says measles infection may have benefits, but there’s no conclusive evidence (X)

Former surgeon general blasts RFK Jr.’s rhetoric, highlights herd immunity amid measles outbreak

Parents Whose Unvaccinated Child Died From Measles Say They Remain Anti-Vaccine (X) Others, sadly, not so much. (X)

Chart shows how measles is spreading exponentially in the US. (X)

Dozens of free measles vaccine clinics close in Texas as federal funding is cut. (X) Many clinics had been planned at schools in the Dallas area with low vaccination rates.

RFK, Jr. Wants to Let Bird Flu Spread on Poultry Farms. Why Experts Are Concerned (X)

As measles cases rise, some parents become vaccine enthusiasts

The CDC buried a measles forecast that stressed the need for vaccinations. (X)

Two infants die of whooping cough in Louisiana as cases climb nationally. (X)

The CDC's reported hire for a vaccine study is a discredited misinformation agent. (X) RFK’s HHS is attempting to revive the debunked autism-vaccine link.

Health Care Access Issues

Not even wealth is saving Americans from dying at rates seen among some of the poorest Europeans. (X) Experts said a new study of wealth and mortality in middle-aged and older adults points to deep-rooted health risks in the U.S.

Record high can’t afford health care: Gallup.

Prosecutors to Seek Death Penalty for Mangione, Bondi Says. (X) Slate talks about why Mangione’s cause is so sympathetic, and across the political spectrum. (X)

Other Health-Related News

RFK Jr.'s Reasoning to Ban Phones in School Sparks Backlash (X)

Skeptical Elites Mock RFK Jr.’s Goal of ‘Making America Healthy Again,’ Yet the Premise Is Catching on With the Public (X)

Dr. Oz Is Now the Grown-Up in the Room, which is depressing in its own way. (X)

On Dr. Oz's confirmation hearings to lead Medicaid and Medicare bureaus: "Like his counterparts named to lead the NIH and FDA, Mehmet Oz may be the best we are going to get." (X)

Is whole milk healthier? Why RFK Jr. wants to ditch the Obama-era requirement for lower calorie milk in school lunches. (X)

RFK Jr. wants to stop people using SNAP benefits to buy soda. Will it help? Speaking as a former NYC-er: good luck with that one. 

Federal funding cuts threaten science research and student prospects at universities (X)

A French university looks to fund scientific research projects defunded by the US government. (X)

[hasufin]

Youth

So by now I'm sure you've heard how DOGE fired a bunch of really crucial people who oversee America's nuclear arsenal. And whether you think we should have nukes or not, I think we can all agree that those nukes should be properly handled.

And then, having been clued in that these folks are, you know, very important and necessary, they're now frantically trying to reverse the idiotic layoffs.

And of course this is emblematic of all the DOGE layoffs - foolish, mindless cutting of necessary people in the name of an ideology which would burn the world down for no particular gain.

But it particularly bothers me that this is the exact same unforced error which happened under the previous Trump administration, when Rick Perry - who having been a Senator should have known better, he had been making decisions about it for a while already - accepted the job as Secretary of Energy and then learned that his new job included oversight of the nuclear arsenal. So, you know, these are not in appearance people with the intellectual capacity to learn in the face of their ideology.

What's especially galling, though? That was eight years ago, right? The idiot kids Musk has doing this are in their late teens and early 20s. They are too young to remember the Rick Perry fuckup. They're making the same fucking mistake because they're children. And yes, I would advocate for people in their late teens and early 20s to have personal autonomy and be respected as adults... but they are not the people who should be making critical decisions about America's nuclear arsenal. Or any other part of our government. They literally, provably lack the knowledge and experience to make those calls.

[stayarmytinyzenmoa-l]

Midnight Coffee [Ch. 1]

Non-Idol AU / Coffee Shop AU TW: None Pairing: Platonic!NCT 127 x Reader YN Pronouns: Not Specified Genre: Slice of Life, Light Comedy Word Count: 6.4K Summary: You run a coffee shop that only opens past midnight and closes just before the sun rises, and the people you meet are never more interesting than the stories they bring with them.

Notes: Don't be mad, this is still a pretty chill story that will come out pretty slowly, but it's nice to go through it again and update it with my more current writing style... you might find that this fic is much longer now jdhfsfj

Inspired by the Indie Game ‘Coffee Talk’

(1/?) [Character Profiles] | [Next] [NCT Masterlist] | [Midnight Coffee Masterlist]

September 22, 20XX

Stormy Season Coming Early This Year, be Sure to Purchase New Umbrellas!

Be sure to dress warm! Meteorologists predict a sudden jump in the stormy season, estimating that the season will start a few months earlier than in previous years. Everyone is advised to be prepared for sudden storms that may be unpredicted in the forecast and to be aware of how you’re driving on the roads. The sudden storms combined with the dropping temperatures are an obvious safety hazard. Please take care!

Managing Stress in a New Age — How Businesses Have to Adapt to New Innovations and How Their Workers are Affected

In the wake of massive layoffs, business leader Zhang Yixing shares many tips for businesses and how to stay afloat despite society’s shift into the technological age. However, he admits that in the realm of workers, this task is much greater and should be handled as carefully as possible as he cites the sudden increase in massive unemployment rates nationwide. Alongside this, the governor has proposed new welfare and unemployment programs for those eligible, which include being unemployed for more than half of the year or making a certain amount per month. Check with your local government office to see if you qualify.

NeoZone Preparations Are Underway in the New Convention Center in Zone One of Neo City

The biggest event of the year is among us! And remarkably around the same time as the famed Resonance Festival. With the sudden influx of tourists coming in, the governor is confident in an increase of job opportunities and economic increases. Onto the topic of NeoZone, the East’s version of the West’s ComicCon, a few panels that are going to be highlighted are NCT U’s new production The 7th Sense and KQ F’s new production Wonderland, both very large games that are already in the contending for Game of the Year.

How the Planning Committee for this year’s Resonance Festival is Preparing for their Tenth Consecutive Year

The Resonance Festival has now been around for a decade and many people are hoping for a big celebration for the milestone! Planning Committee head Jeon Jungkook promises that the festival will be "one to remember" for the entirety of music history, with the released First Day lineup including the hit boy group DNA, the world-wide girl group Boombayah, and the monster rookie group Ice Age. Judging on public opinion, this Resonance Festival will indeed be the "one to remember" and Jeon teased a special appearance from an upcoming artist that no one will want to miss.

~

The crack of thunder was the first thing to greet you this night. The second was a pile of letters on the floor just under the post flap, thankfully dry, and with an ominous stamp of red across one of the envelopes. Carefully, you pick it up and toss it on the counter, going through every letter except for that one. A postcard from Jaehyun, the latest edition of Favorite magazine, the small pamphlet for The Neo City Whispers with Mark's name written on the 'By' line, and finally your notice of overdue rent.

Because of the rains business hasn't been doing well. You're not so bad off that you can't stay, but you are in enough of the reds to be a little concerned. Perhaps it was time you were a little more thorough in advertisement. But, then again... You looked around your cafe. Serene, for now, and even against the torrential downpour you'd call it perfect. Did you really want to disturb this peace with a line?

Shaking your head and hiding your mail, you then shuffled the newest lo-fi album by [Andrew Jeremy] first thing. The clock chimed midnight and you had a feeling about who exactly would be coming through the door first, but your regulars always surprised you. Something you learned about being the barista to this hidden gem was that you really shouldn’t expect anything and above all, you should appreciate the unknowns and the charms that come in with every night you flip the open sign on the stained glass door.

When the lights flickered above you with the inevitable roll of thunder, the first thing you thought of was your regulars, particularly one absent-minded young man, and hoped that they didn’t get caught in the rain. You pulled the umbrella storage rack out of the closet and placed it next to the door, being sure to switch the welcome mat to a more water-absorbent one.

Midnight Coffee, the café that only opens after midnight and closes anytime before the sun rises has been the true love of yours since almost forever now. Despite the bustling nightlife the city actually had, you only had a handful of customers every night and, truthfully, you preferred it that way. You were fond of the close-knit regulars you had, although you were always excited to see new faces come through the door. You had made the strange but respectable decision to only serve hot drinks, be it because the nice ice machines were expensive or that it messed with the whole vibe of the place, it somehow proved profitable despite the apparent setbacks. The café itself only had a handful of customers per night, and they were often your regulars who you had come to know to the point of friends. Despite its mysteries, one thing remains clear and it’s that you brewed the best coffee in the city and no customer of yours, regular or not, can contest that, and you hold that title given to you by a certain overworked college student dear to your heart.

Midnight Coffee was located in between two rather large buildings, it would take someone who already knew about the café to even know it was there given how far back it was between the two. The building on the right is a law office and the one on the left being an apartment complex, both easily overshadowed the small café. The café itself had a direct staircase to your apartment in particular, a blessing from the landlord especially in a big city.

Midnight Coffee's motto is that the customer always receives what they desire. Your regulars applauded you for this, one remarked that it was almost as if you always knew what drink they needed and when they needed it, and prepared it perfectly. You could say that you had quite some time to practice and perfect these drinks, hence the fixed menu of warm beverages, but you were always one to try new things should your customers request it. Challenges are only apart of this job, after all.

~

The Neo City Whispers Welcome to the Neo City Whispers! Fr: Byun Baekhyun

This pamphlet serves as your confirmation to our subscription! Thank you for supporting our independent authors and I hope you enjoy their works! Be sure to send in any feedback to their socials, we always appreciate it! And, hey, who knows? Read enough and maybe you'll want to write someday too?

Give it some thought!

~

“Hey, (Y/N)! Geez, it’s raining like crazy out there,” Mark’s cheerful voice filled the previously calm atmosphere. he wiped his shoes on the mat properly before walking in, not wanting to leave water anywhere on the hardwood flooring. He was holding onto his laptop, two notebooks, and a simple pencil pouch when he sat at the counter, but they were quickly pushed to the side. He wipes the water from his glasses and shakes his hand through his already messy hair.

Mark is, and will probably forever be, your main regular. You’re not sure if it’s habit or intention that he faithfully shows up every night at the same time, and the days he doesn’t he explains what happened the next day. Although the length of time he stays varies, he’s always been one to say a quick goodbye or give a proper explanation prior to departing. Regardless, he always seemed to brighten the area enough to set a good tone for the rest of the evening, the boy has even befriended or at the very least acquainted himself well enough with your other customers.

“Did you get caught up in the rain, Mark?” You asked him while you grabbed a cup from its hanging rack, you already had a feeling as to what he would order, but you’d ask him anyway later.

“Yeah, it’s crazy! Just when I thought the storms were letting up, fwoosh! One minute I’m walking out of the office and the next it’s pouring,” Mark frowns. “Luckily, I was able to save my laptop at the expense of my favorite hoodie,” he holds up the drenched fabric and shakes his head. You pulled out a large paper bag and handed it to him.

“You can borrow these small towels for now, just to keep the bag intact so you don’t have to hold it,” he handed you the hoodie and you folded it so that it could fit into the bag padded with tea towels.

“Thanks, (Y/N), you’re awesome,” Mark places the bag next to his seat.

“Hard day at work?” You asked him.

“You could… say that,” he laughs awkwardly.

“What can I get you?” You decided to ask before you both forgot.

“Do you even have to ask?” He cracks a smile and you shrugged.

“I mean, I’m never the kind to assume, what if one day you really need a pick me up?” You asked him.

“The day I drink coffee is the day that door falls off its hinges,” Mark points to the entrance and laughs tiredly. “Uh… Just the regular, please,” he says. You nodded while opening the mini-refrigerator under the counter to pull out a carton of milk.

“Have any preference for tea today?”

“Nah, just use what you usually use,” Mark hums, he opens his laptop and starts working while you take the tea box from the top shelf and walk up to the machine, placing the correct ingredients inside and watching the latte fill the cup. “Oh, wait, I do have a small request!”

“Mmhmm?”

“Can I get some latte art? I know you hate doing it, but they always look so pretty,” he says, ending with his signature tight-lipped smile.

“Sure,” you nodded your head and took the hot cup from the machine, grabbing the cream off to the side. “Any specific shapes?”

“Whichever’s fine.”

“Alright then,” you made a simple design on top of the cup, you had to admit you despised doing this at first, you were never able to get it right on the first try. But after quite some time of practice, and a regular who happened to enjoy your efforts regardless of the result, you got somewhat proficient at it. But one strange trend you had noticed about this regular is that he only requests it when there’s something bothering him, just a general observation, really, one that tends to be right every time. “Anything you want to talk about, Mark?”

“Uh… yeah,” he nodded his head and looked up from his laptop. He stared at you for a moment before another small laugh came up. “Actually, nah, never mind. It’s fine,” he shakes his head.

“Mark.”

“Okay, okay, fine, I’ll tell you,” he closes his laptop. You stifled back a grin, he was always easy to give in. “So, you know how I work for the Whispers, right?”

“Yeah,” you placed the finished latte in front of him, but he was more interested in finishing his story than acknowledging it.

“Well, today I woke up late.”

“No surprise there.”

“None at all, but because of that I missed my bus to get to the office, so I had to call an Uber.”

“I’m guessing this Uber changed your life?”

“It did,” a wider smile grows on the young author’s face, “But, let me explain. I’m broke.”

“I know.”

“And I didn’t have any time, so I had to call an Uber Pool to get to the office, and guess what? My boss was there too!” Mark exaggerates the story with his hands while you listen closely. “Well, not my boss boss, he is my boss’ boss… if that makes sense.”

“I get it,” you nodded your head.

“Okay, cool, so like we were kind of just sitting there, you know? Like, of course, it would be awkward between employee and CEO, so, like, it made sense. And, I have no idea what came over me and I kind of regret doing it now, but I decided fuck it and I told him that I had an idea for a novel, and he said he was curious about what I had!”

Now this caught your ear, not that you weren’t paying attention before, you were just more intrigued about this story. You had long known that he was looking to do something bigger, but you didn’t think he’d ever get the courage to actually do it and, you had to admit, you were rather impressed.

“So… what did you tell him?”

“I pitched to him an idea about a collection of stories that all fit together into a much larger one,” Mark explains.

“Oh?” He'd told you many times about a project that could kickstart his career. He was tired of just writing short stories, he wanted to do something on a much larger scale, something with more of an impact than a small pamphlet. But you really didn’t think that he’d follow through and actually do it. Mark had a tendency of saying things, but when it came to actually doing those things, that was a whole different story that he probably wouldn’t write. Until now, that is.

“Yes! Keep in mind this is just bare bones stuff, so I didn’t have much to present to him. But he said that he really liked the idea of it. I went on further and told him that I’d start the novel as if they’re separate stories, and then as the novel continues they become more bound together.”

“That sounds like a great idea, Mark,” you offered your support of the idea. Mark was a hard worker, yes, but it was easy for him to get discouraged, something you had found out quite some time ago. “So he green-lighted it then?”

“He did!”

“That’s amazing! So when’s the first draft due?” You asked him. Mark fell silent, a forced smile on his face. “Mark?”

“In… a month from now.”

“A month?!”

“Yeah, I was shocked too.”

“Tell me that you at least have an idea for it.”

“Aside from what I told you? None. Nada. Zilch,” Mark finally grabs the ceramic cup and tries the drink. “This is really good,” he says.

“Thank you, but back to your novel… what are you going to do about it?”

“I’ve got no idea… I’m going to be honest, I didn’t expect him to say that he even liked the idea. So I spent the entire day at the office trying to draft something, but I couldn’t figure out what to do for the life of me.”

“Oh, I know where this is going,” you shook your head. “You’re behind schedule now, aren’t you?”

“Horribly.”

“I’m guessing you’re going to be here for a while then, huh?”

“Yup,” Mark sighs. The doorbell chimes as another walks into the cafe. “I don’t know what I’m going to do, I don’t even have a plot in mind. I shouldn’t have said anything…” Mark mumbles.

“Hello there,” the new customer waves his hand and stands at the door. You greeted him with a smile as he brushed off the droplets from his raincoat and carefully shook off his umbrella before storing it.

“Hi, have a seat anywhere you’d like,” you gestured around the café, and he opted to sit down at the counter with a seat between him and Mark. “What can I get you tonight, sir?”

“Just a hot chocolate, please,” he smiles and pulls his phone out. He places it down and glances over at Mark. “Um, pardon, I couldn’t help but overhear a little bit of your conversation.”

“Hmm? Oh, sorry about that, my friends always tell me that I can get kinda loud,” Mark looks over to him and nods his head quickly.

“No, don’t be sorry at all! Actually, I’m on the storyboarding team for a game I’m working on, and if you need any tips I’d be glad to help.”

“Really? You’re not pulling my leg, right?” Mark was more interested now, even turning the stool over enough to fully look at the stranger. “Where do you work?”

“NCT U,” he answers. You take the cocoa powder off of the shelf and place two tablespoons of it into the machine and added milk. You turned the machine on and it hummed quietly.

“No way,” Mark’s jaw drop, then he goes wide-eyed and turns to him again. “You wouldn’t happen to be working on The 7th Sense, are you?!”

There came another key phrase that caught your attention. You were never a big video game fanatic, but you have heard of the game and you were well aware of the hype building up behind it. NCT U Productions was a big game company, one that was well known for titles such as Dream In A Dream, the strange but ultimately poetic open-world game, and Yestoday, the visual novel-based game with the so-called biggest twist in its genre. There were, of course, many more that you’d love to go on about after your many hours devoted to gameplays, but once you got to talking about it, no doubt you’d never stop. The thought of having an employee here in front of you was amazing enough for you, but you did your best to maintain your professionalism in front of him.

“Yup, I’m the head programmer for it,” he says. He flips his buzzing phone over. “Lee Taeyong,” he holds his hand out for Mark to shake it.

“Hey, I’m Mark,” the latter takes his hand and shakes it. “Lee, Mark Lee, yeah… that’s me,” Mark clears his throat right as you placed the finished cup of cocoa in front of Taeyong.

“I’ve read a few of your stories on the Neo City Whispers, and I have to say I’m quite the fan,” Taeyong says.

“Whoa… I’m glad you like them,” Mark nods. He looked at you with excitement in his eyes before focusing back on Taeyong. "Sorry, I'm a bit starstruck here, I've never met someone who read my stuff before."

"You should get used to it, I'm always recommending your short stories to my friends. I'm quite the fan of Child, actually."

"Whoa, that's one of my earlier stories!" Though you could see the excitement sparkling in his eyes, just as quickly you saw him swallow it down. “I’ve never seen you around here.”

“A friend of mine recommended this place a few weeks earlier but I never got the chance to come over until now,” Taeyong explains. “I've been in the mood for a hot drink so when I agreed to meet another friend to catch up I was on the hunt for coffee spots. No surprise, but I have a pretty hectic schedule so all the other cafés were closed by the time I got out, then I remembered this quaint place. I’m sure we agreed to meet here at twelve-thirty but…” Taeyong looks at his phone.

“No show?” You finished his sentence.

“It would appear so,” Taeyong frowns. He pauses and drinks the cocoa. “Thank you, this is exactly what I needed right now,” he sighs.

"So goes the motto," Mark hums.

"Motto?"

"(Y/N)'s claim to fame is that they can always brew what you need. Haven't heard anyone not liking anything here before," Mark says.

"I see, you may see me around more often then," Taeyong nods. He takes another sip of his cocoa. "This really is delicious, though."

“I’m glad you like it, Mr. Lee.”

“Ah, just Taeyong is fine, please. I feel awkward when people refer to me as that,” Taeyong had a bashful look on his face.

“I heard… I heard you guys are crunching over at NCT U,” Mark speaks up.

“Yeah, we’ve been pulling overtime to get this game out by NeoZone,” Taeyong drinks more of the cocoa. “But the company laid off a lot of their workers, so the ones that are still here are working even more, it’s insane… but on the bright side, more job openings came up.”

“NeoZone? That’s like a month away,” Mark says. “Just like my novel’s draft… what a mess,” Mark shakes his head.

“You know, if worse comes to worst, I can put in a good word for you at NCT U, I do too much work for that company for them to lay me off anyway,” Taeyong finishes the cocoa and slides the cup towards you, which you took and placed in the sink. Just then, the bell chimed again and another person walked in, placing his umbrella in the holder before taking the seat next to Taeyong.

“Johnny, I suppose the regular today, correct?” You asked him.

“Yes, please and thank you,” he smiles. You got to work on his regular order while you continued to listen to the ongoing conversation.

“Hi, Johnny,” Mark waved at him.

“Hey, Mark,” Johnny’s countenance was always bright regardless of the day.

“Well, I’m going to head to my little corner over there if you need me,” Mark says before grabbing his things and moving over to the corner table of the café. He often sat there when he was on a time crunch, claiming that the specific spot always made him focus better.

“Well, I’ll leave then, thank you again for the nice drink, I’ll be sure to come back some time when I’m free,” Taeyong speaks up, he digs through his messenger bag but you hold your hand up.

"First drink is on the house," you insist.

"Really? Thank you," Taeyong grins. "Have a good night, it was nice meeting you."

"Same here, stay dry," you wave as he exits the café.

“Whoa, I bother him or something?” Johnny speaks up as soon as Taeyong was gone.

“I’m pretty sure you’re fine, Johnny,” you laughed. Johnny looked around the café and hummed.

“Slow night?”

“It would appear so, you’re earlier than usual,” you noted. “Off work early?”

“You could say that. Tend to get off early when there's no work to do,” Johnny sighed. “Up for some workplace gossip?”

“Oh, god, how old are you?” You joked with him. “Yes, of course,” you placed the triple-shot espresso in front of him and he drank some before starting his story.

“The company’s hiring this new hotshot photographer,” Johnny starts. “I have no idea where they get the money from, but fuck it, right? They’re taking a huge gamble with this guy, and apparently, he’s really good, but a lot of the other staff don’t know how to feel about it,” Johnny says.

You could only nod your head while you glanced over at the side of the counter, an untouched rack of magazines next to it. No one really reads magazines anymore, the only reason why they hadn’t collected dust is because you dust it periodically, and of course you were a loyal patron of Favorite.

“I suppose having a little bit of faith is good then,” you nodded. The door chimed again and in came another regular of yours, he walked in and held the door open for another person who came in shortly after him, one you didn’t recognize.

“(Y/N)!” He waved his hand lazily and sat next to Johnny, the new customer sitting a seat away from them.

“What’s the occasion? You’re both here rather early,” you grabbed a cup from the shelf and looked over to Yuta.

“Just the regular, please,” he winked at you casually while starting a conversation with Johnny. You were quick to start brewing his regular order, one that he often stuck with during his regular visits.

“Welcome to the Midnight Coffee, can I get you anything, sir?” You asked the man sitting at the end. He hung his backpack off of his chair and looked at the menu.

“Wow, he gets a nice greeting?” Johnny teases. You shot him a playful look and he laughed.

“You’ve been coming here for years. He’s new, so I suggest you finish your coffee before it gets cold, Mr. Suh.”

“Oh, our favorite barista pulled the last name card, Johnny, better listen,” Yuta pipes in.

“That's my menu up there, but if you have a specific request I can try to make it as long as it’s a hot drink,” you said.

“What do you recommend?” The stranger asks.

“Well,” you held the cup in your hand and looked over to him. “Tell me about yourself.”

“Whoa, (Y/N), right in front of my coffee?” Johnny continues to jab at you.

“I’m charging you extra, Johnny,” you retaliated back. “How was your day, Mr…”

“Ah, Kim. Kim Dongyoung. Or, just Doyoung’s fine too,” he says. His phone rings but he silences it and turns it over. “As for my day, it was alright. I just moved to this city, actually.”

“Ah, so you’re new in town then, I know just the drink,” you took out the now finished Black Magic for Yuta and replaced it with the new cup, brewing a rather simple but, in your opinion, delicious tea for the newcomer.

“I got a call from the boss, they really want me to come back to the agency,” Yuta kept his words at a modest volume while speaking to Johnny, a stark contrast to how loud the two would get when it was just them at the counter, he was no doubt trying to be courteous to Doyoung.

“I mean, you’d probably bring in a lot of cash,” Johnny laughs. “But seriously, it’s probably got something to do with the new photographer, the staff wouldn’t stop talking about him, apparently he’s really good. Something about always getting the perfect angle?”

“Interesting,” Yuta watches you place the cup down in front of him. “It’s rather risky though, isn’t it? Hiring a new photographer so late in the game?” Yuta asks.

“Yeah, I’m really hoping that the boss knew what he was doing with this one, the last gamble they took moved to another country,” Johnny ends with a wry laugh, one that Yuta didn’t return, instead he looked to his mug and took a picture of it. You added your finishing touches to the Ginger Mint Tea and placed it in front of Doyoung.

“Thank you,” he placed his phone face down again and brought the cup to his lips, taking a moment to revel in the aroma of the tea, before finally trying some. “Is this ginger?”

“Yes, is it not to your liking?”

“No, actually, it’s really good,” Doyoung takes another sip. “I usually don’t like ginger, but for some reason, it tastes good here. What else is in this?”

“Just some mint, I have a plant growing by the back window so I figured I’d try it out.”

“This is your first time making this?”

“Yeah, I’m glad you like it,” you smiled. “I’ll probably add it to the menu then,” you mumbled.

“It is very good, thank you” Doyoung sighs.

"Got any ideas for a name?" You held the chalk in your hand while setting up the stool with another.

"Pardon?"

"Whenever guests help (Y/N) come up with drinks, they get dibs on the name," Yuta explains. He taps the body of his cup. "I called this one Black Magic, something about how the mint pulls the honey and the coffee together. How about you?" Doyoung takes another sip.

"In that case maybe... Ginger Mint Tea?"

"Keep it simple, huh?" You wrote the name on the board.

"Apologies, I have to admit, my friend's the creative so I never really caught onto it..."

"Hey, now, it's a good name. At least I don't have to explain ten times what goes into it, right?" You chuckled.

"Ah, right, thank you." He gives you another quick smile, then he returns to his phone, undoubtedly ending the conversation there. Finally, Yuta places his phone down and rests his chin on the palm of his hand.

“You know, (Y/N), you should consider advertising this little place a little more,” Yuta says.

“I was thinking about it, but you know I like keeping things low-key.”

“I guess it’s part of the charm, but if you ever want some free advertisement,” Yuta waved his phone around. “I think it would be good for you, (Y/N).”

“Ah, but then we wouldn’t be able to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee,” Johnny jokes. “Your screaming fangirls will flood this place.”

“I’m more concerned about the haters, to be honest.”

“Oh right, they might overrun this small place and give you shitty reviews,” Johnny frowns. “Then none of us would be able to come here,” he says.

“It can’t be that bad,” you shook your head.

“It can,” Yuta says. “Plus, I never see anyone else working here, it’s just you, right? Wouldn’t want you to be working double-time with people who would just complain anyway.”

“Thank you for the sentiment, but between you and my other regulars, I’d might as well have eight hands,” you laughed. “Either way, it’s free PR. But you don’t need to worry yourself about that, as long as I have my regulars I think I can keep this café up for a while,” you reassured him.

“Since it came up… how do you keep this place up?” Johnny asks.

“A great barista never reveals their secrets,” you chuckled quietly while Johnny snickered.

“You know, my followers curious about where I get such a perfectly crafted cup of coffee,” Yuta always had his way with his charm, one that you had fallen for many a time but after years of his repeated visits, you’ve grown somewhat of an immunity to it, something that was greatly to his dismay, but one that allowed you both to become somewhat closer. “But alas, that will forever remain a secret, won’t it?” He quirks an eyebrow while he drinks from the ceramic cup.

“All 250 million of them?”

“Well, a good majority of them,” Yuta laughs. He leaned back and stretched his arms over his head before relaxing them on the counter again. The café suddenly fell silent save for your choice of music in the background playing at just the right level, then Yuta looked up with a more serious look on his face.

“Johnny, have you heard?”

“About the company’s thing or about that thing?”

“The latter.”

“Yeah,” Johnny sighs. “That guy… he’s finally back in town and he doesn’t even think about us.”

“Right, I was going to go visit him myself, but I figured I'd ask you first,” Yuta taps his fingers on the wooden counter.

“Just go,” Johnny scoffed, but quickly cleared his throat as if to cover it up. “You don't need to ask me. You two were the best friends.”

“I mean, we haven't talked since-” Johnny cuts him off with a harsh clatter of cup against saucer. Yuta's lips fall into a tight line. "Forget I asked."

“Do what you want,” Johnny's voice has an uncharacteristic coldness to it. The two fell silent, both finishing their drinks at a modest pace without saying a single word, or making any other movements aside from the quick motion of bringing their cups to their lips and the occasional check of their phone. Despite this, the tension was clear.

“So what then? We just let him do his business and then let him go off on some other part of the world again?”

“Yuta, do whatever you want,” Johnny emphasizes each word. Yuta pushes his phone back in his pocket and slides his card towards you, which you took silently and finished the transaction while keeping a stealthy ear. “Put Johnny’s on my card too.”

“You really don’t have to do that,” Johnny waves his hand, his usual smiling self returning, albeit in a much softer and muted way.

“Are you kidding me? You need it.”

“Fine, there’s no arguing with you anyway,” Johnny shook his head. “I’m paying next time then, alright?”

“Sure. We’re leaving then, (Y/N),” Yuta held his hand up as a brief goodbye.

“Later, (Y/N), thanks for the drink,” Johnny followed Yuta out. As soon as the two long-time friends left, the tension in the café disappeared.

“Are they alright?” Doyoung asks. He placed his cup back down on its saucer and you just nodded.

“They’ve known each other for years now, they have their fights,” you mentioned. Mark moved back up to the counter with an empty cup.

“Hi, I’m Mark,” he waved at Doyoung, who nodded in response.

“Hello, I’m Doyoung,” he introduced himself again while you took Mark’s cup.

“Refill, please,” he says.

“Of course,” you placed the cup in the sink and got a newer one for him. Just then another person entered the café and sat next to Mark.

“Hey, Mark!” He smiled brightly and settled in, his backpack leaning against the counter. “(Y/N), can I just get an espresso today?”

“Of course, Jungwoo, studying late tonight?”

“Yup! I have a biochem test tomorrow and ahhh I’ve never been more stressed,” he sobs.

“You said that last week about your calc midterm,” Mark laughs.

“Did I?” Jungwoo wipes the fake tears away while you placed his and Mark’s cups on the counter. Jungwoo turns his attention towards the new face sitting a couple of seats away from him. “Ooh, hello! I’ve never seen you around here before!”

“He’s new in town,” you mentioned absently.

“I am,” Doyoung waves. “Kim Doyoung, I’m a freelance… artist,” he hesitated for only a second, but you caught it easily; however, you doubted that the two college students behind you did.

“Kim Jungwoo! Third-year biological engineering major,” he says. “Wow, so this is your first time here at the café, right? (Y/N)’s the best barista in the city!” Jungwoo says.

“So I see,” Doyoung nods with a polite smile.

“Yeah, if only we could promote the café a little more,” Jungwoo laughs.

“Ah, and the topic comes again,” you responded while washing the dishes.

“Again?”

“You just missed Johnny and Yuta,” Mark says. “They were talking about it too. Yuta offered to advertise the café on his Instagram, but (Y/N) refused,” Mark fills him in.

“Aww, I always get here right after those two leave. I don’t think I’ve spoken to them in a while,” Jungwoo pouts.

“Do you guys know each other well?” Doyoung asks.

“Uh… I mean not really. But they’re like real regulars, they come here almost every night apparently, so it’s hard not to really, well, not know them, you know?” Jungwoo stumbles over his words only slightly. “But I guess a lot of us who come to this café get to know each other well at some point,” Jungwoo says.

“I see,” Doyoung nods. “I’m sure no one knows them better than the barista here then,” Doyoung continues.

“In that assumption, you are correct,” you finished hanging the cups and turned back around. Doyoung slid his now empty cup towards you.

“Thank you for the drink,” Doyoung cleared his throat and placed a bill on the counter. “I was supposed to meet someone here, but I guess he’s a no show,” Doyoung frowns.

“I’m sorry about that,” you took the bill, slid it back to him, and spoke up before he could protest. “First drink is on the house,” you insisted.

“Ah, thank you,” Doyoung took the money back.

“Thank you for dropping by regardless, I hope you sort things out with that friend of yours.”

“I’m sure I will, we’ve known each other for a while. Either way, I think I might come back here and try more of your menu, actually,” Doyoung smiles. “No, wait, I’ll definitely come back soon.”

“These doors are always open past midnight then, have a nice rest of your night,” you watched him grab his backpack and exit the café.

“Wah… I didn’t get my first drink free,” Jungwoo hums.

“I just started that new policy today.”

“Hey!”

“Here’s your espresso, Jungwoo,” you placed the cup in front of him.

“Thank you,” he sang and held the cup in his hands. “Ah, I’m more awake already. I completely slept through the entirety of yesterday’s lecture and now I’m cramming, I have no idea what’s going on here, (Y/N),” he cried.

“Well, sadly I can’t say I know how to solve derivatives on your level, but I can say that a rested mind certainly helps,” you held onto the saucer and pulled it towards you, the untouched espresso nearly spilling at the sides.

“Wait, (Y/N), please, I need that,” you could see the desperation in Jungwoo’s eyes.

“What time is your test?”

“Seven at night.”

“And you promise to sleep when you get home,” you inched the cup closer to him.

“I do!” He nods. You pushed the saucer towards him again and he drinks a large portion of it in one go. “Ah, that hit the spot…”

“Good luck with your test, I saw you studying for it in Lit today,” Mark says while he adjusts his glasses.

“You both have class together?”

“Western Literature with Professor Earnst,” Mark answers. Jungwoo lays his head on the table.

“I always fall asleep during his lectures…”

“I swear, your two modes are sleep and eat, Jungwoo, how do you even study?”

“By spending his paycheck at my café, obviously,” you laughed and leaned on the counter next to Jungwoo. “Don’t fall asleep now, you still have to get home.”

“I know… I know,” Jungwoo’s voice was muffled under his arm. “I’ll finish up this espresso and go home,” he says, sitting up straight again and taking another swig of the drink.

“I’ll head out with you then,” Mark says. “Our apartments are in the same area anyway, let’s take the bus together,” he says.

“It’s a plan then,” Jungwoo nods. “But, since we’re here, what are you doing here so late? Got an exam to study for too?”

“Backed up on work, actually, my deadline for the next short story is approaching and I haven’t even written a single word of it,” he mutters.

“Nor do you have an idea for your new novel,” you teased him.

“Novel? You’re writing a novel?” Jungwoo’s interest piqued at this.

“Thinking about it, the manuscript is due in a month and I have no clue what to write it on,” Mark groans. “What was I even thinking? With classes and the Whispers job, why did I think that I could juggle a novel on top of that?”

“Why don’t you just ask your boss for an extension?”

“If I extended it then I’d have to wait until next year to pitch another idea. I got lucky being stuck in that Uber with my boss so now I can’t just throw this opportunity away,” Mark says. “Nah, I’ll deal with this tomorrow, I think I have a good enough short story for my boss anyway,” Mark downs the rest of his latte.

“Thanks, (Y/N),” Jungwoo hands you his card and you finished up the transaction. “See you Wednesday!” He says. Mark hands you a bill.

“I’m heading out too, (Y/N), I’ll see you tomorrow,” he says, he picks up his bag and the paper bag with his sweater in it.

“Get home safe, and watch the puddles,” you watched them leave, and as soon as the door shut, Mark took the liberty of flipping the sign for you after looking at his watch. You looked at the analog clock above the door. “5:45 already?” You washed the remaining dishes again and placed them on their drying racks, wiped the counter, and pushed in the chairs that had been left out. Finally, you closed your music app, and all sounds ceased entirety. Once you shut the lights off, you ascended the stairs into your apartment to sleep for about six or so hours until you had to get up and complete your day again.

General Tag List: @stopeatread @bat-shark-repellant @raeincitizen @umbralhelwolf @yangsrose @kazooms @sadcoffeecritic 

NCT Tag List: @cherrylovr @minjiville 

Midnight Coffee: @luminousannie, @multifandomania06,

If you want to be added to either tag list or removed just send me a reply to this post, and ask, or a DM and I’ll add you as soon as possible!

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Nathalie Baptiste at HuffPost:

The Trump administration has tried to downplay the effects of potentially dismantling the Department of Education by saying crucial programs for kids with disabilities would be moved to the Department of Health and Human Services. But HHS is in the midst of its own widespread layoffs, with thousands of workers losing their jobs and critical programs being cut, and advocates worry what could happen if a crucial education program is moved from one agency in turmoil to another. When President Donald Trump signed an executive order with the goal of dismantling the Department of Education last month, he told reporters that a key function of the agency — ensuring children with disabilities receive equal access to a quality education — would be “immediately” moved to HHS. The Education Department is in charge of serving the more than 7 million children with disabilities who attend public school in the U.S., including by providing them with individualized education plans, speech therapists and special education teachers. The president has offered no more details about how this move may happen, but both Education Secretary Linda McMahon and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have expressed their support for the proposal. It’s unclear if the administration envisions staff from the Education Department moving to HHS to administer the program or current HHS employees taking it over. Just weeks before Trump signed the order, he laid off nearly half of the employees at the Education Department, including some who worked in special education programs. Neither department responded to HuffPost’s request for comment. Administration officials have pointed to the fact that programs for students with disabilities have been handled by HHS before. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which is the law that created and regulates special education services, was passed in 1975 — before the Education Department even existed. Trump can’t move programs from one agency to another without congressional approval. The law requires oversight of IDEA to be done at the Department of Education, and Congress would have to amend existing law or create an entirely new one in order to shuffle programs around. Dismantling the department entirely would also require an act of Congress.

47 shuffles special education services from one chaos-filled department (DoE) to another (HHS).

[toxinellebug]

Paris and the World under The Supreme’s Rule Headcannons

Back during WW2, when Marianne suggested to Wang Fu they should use the Miraculous, she of course meant using them to fight. Wang Fu decided to use them to make a wish;

World Peace.

The price?

World freedom.

So there are SOME good things… No war in Vietnam, no war in Isreal, and good news Americans; 9/11 never happened and school shootings do not exist because it is impossible for anyone to get a gun, not even hunters!

On the downside, no guns for hunting means wildlife conservation is a thing of the past. Animal overpopulation in addition to human deforestation has led to a significant decrease in food sources for wildlife, many of which have gone extinct due to starvation. Another plus side is there are no “slap on the wrist” punishments for criminals who assault women and children. Death penalty is a very effective way to prevent recurring crimes.

Prisons are also no longer a multi-million dollar drain on tax-paying citizens; no free room and board for criminals. They all have to work in labor camps to earn every morsel of food and live in 15 square foot cells.

(Marinette’s Grandmother is currently serving time in a labor camp)

There aren’t really much in the way of trials either… You are arrested for a crime, presented with the facts/evidence, then sentenced.

There are no homeless wandering streets, begging for hand-outs. There are special labor camps for the impoverished where they are assigned tasks that meet their physical and mental abilities, snd are paid enough to afford them cheap living quarters, approximately 130 square feet in size, and the most basic of food stuffs and hygiene products to keep them alive. No, they cannot refuse.

Remember, the Supreme knows best.

Project Oxygen is a go- several small parks have been “re-habilitated” into giant filters and fresh air is beginning to be sold in fancy plastic bottles thanks to Bertrand King. He’s been trying for a while to convince Gabriel that Adrien should do commercials for Project Oxygen, as it would be great for the boy’s career…. But Gabriel always comes up with an excuse to get out of it. The latest being that it wouldn’t match with Adrien’s new look.

Audrey Bourgeois ADORES Adrien’s new look! It’s so much more bold and edgy! Also, the latest fashion trend is not glitter, it’s metal studs- industry and progress in a sleek, metallic form.

Audrey is home more often than Andre, who could be gone for months at a time working on one of his movies. But of course he still handles important paperwork and does video calls to check on hotel and sends lots of very expensive gifts to his little Princess.

Chloe is even more abusive and demanding of Sabrina, and poor Sabrina puts up with it for her father’s sake-

There has been a lot of vandalism lately (thanks to Shadybug and ClawNoir) and talk that Enforcers just aren’t as effective at keeping the order as they used to be. Word is that tech Giant Tsurugi is in the process of designing new automatons that will be more efficient (and less costly) than human Enforcers. Who knows? There may even be a surge of Enforcer lay-offs if the project becomes successful. Chloe has hinted that she MIGHT be willing to put in a good word with Daddy, should Mr. Raincomprix be one of the many Enforcers who finds himself out of a job. The Hotel could always use more security guards/bouncers. But since Daddy ONLY hires the most DEDICATED employees… Well, how can Chloe possibly make a recommendation if she’s not sure Sabrina’s dad would REALLY give it his all? So Sabrina bends over backwards until she breaks and then some to keep Chloe happy.

Officer Raincomprix is also uneasy about talks of future layoffs, and as such, has become harsh in Enforcing law and order. No little wrong doing goes unnoticed or forgiven. No leniency. (Think Roger-cop without the Akuma).

Rose is not that perky. Under the Supreme, there is no socialist nonsense like Universal Healthcare, so medicines, doctor visits, prescriptions, hospitals… it’s all crazy expensive just like in the USA. This means, in order for Rose to be able to attend a private school like Francois Dupont; her parents work a LOT of overtime and pinch pennies whenever they can. So it’s very lonely at home and in this universe, Rose has not (yet) met Juleka (as stated in previous headcannon). Instead of Unicorns, Rose’s favorite animal is the Caladrius, (a mythological bird that can heal any illness). Though unicorns and kittens are still in her top five favs.

Rose doesn’t see the word through rose-colored glasses. She can’t see the silver-lining in ever raincloud… Instead, she tries to make it herself; if there is no positive, she will just have to invent one! It’s more work, and exhausting, but she HAS to, otherwise she’d drown in depression. Rose’s illness is kept a secret, not because she fears people will treat her with pity, but that she fears people will look down on her; like she’s a burden on her parents, like it’s annoying to have to put up with her weakness.

(I’ve actually been sick myself, since xmas day in fact- perhaps as punishment from the universe for making ClawNoir cataclysm Santa Claus)

Penny is Bob Roth’s personal servant- er, I mean, assistant… which means she’s also gopher for XY. (There is no woman in Paris more miserable than Penny).

Jean-Pierre Monlataing is still an Art teacher at Francois Dupont… and he teaches traditional art styles. Helping students practice time-honored techniques through repetition and standardization. Graffiti is not art, so no spray-paint cans in his classroom! Alix Kubdel is his most troubled student. Marinette does not attend art club. Nathaniel shows great talent for portraits.

Jalil strives to be better than his father; he admire Nathalie Sancoeur and hopes to rise to her position of Director of the Louvre someday.

Directors of Museums are prestigious positions you have to work hard your whole life to even be considered for, as The Supreme appoints them. As far as the public knows, this is for the sake of preserving history as well as ensuring that dangerous ideas from the past do not repeat themselves and inspire anarchy in young, impressionable minds.

The reality is that they are searching for clues to missing Miraculous.

The Supreme has already taken steps to ensure the Prodigious will never pose a threat to his power (Temple and access to cave have been destroyed and the bracelet has been confiscated and placed in a secure location).

But there are still most likely Miraculous scattered across the earth. Gems that, if fallen into the “wrong hands” could disrupt the peace and order that the Supreme has worked hard to maintain.

Marianne intends to find these Miraculous first… if only she had the help of someone younger and more physically up to the challenge.

When Gabriel/Betterfly/Hesperia forms “The Resistance” and Marianne is introduced to their ranks, this is exactly the plan she suggests in order to take down The Supreme and give power back to all the people.

She only has a few clues on where to start searching though.

…Fun fact, if you were to unify the Ladybug miraculous of creation with the Eagle miraculous of freedom, you would get Ladybird- determined to create a new, free world.

[warderfromtheborder]

Final Shape thoughts

TL:DR it's very good. I'm glad Bungie cooked so good on it, but I'm still sad/frustrated/concerned about the future development of the game

Campaign 10/10, no negative notes. Absolutely fantastic writing and performances. Liked the structure of having the final mission happen after the raid. I hope we get to replay Excision it was a lot of fun. SCUR-V appearance gave me the giggles and the shouts.

Prismatic is really cool, I like having a different way to do my liar's handshake build.

The new enemy faction is super cool, but it felt like they got less aggressive with their abilities as the campaign progressed?

The Pale Heart is a fucking AMAZING destination, what an excellent way to frame the final leg of this journey. I took tons of screenshots looking back at the portal. Climbing up the weird Witness tree hieroglyph in Iconoclast was one of my fave bits of traversal.

The only thing I genuinely wish was different is: in Wild Card, I wish the dark ether'd War Beast was like, 10 times as big. I wanted to get attacked by a comically large beaste.

Satisfaction at a good ending for the story is on one hand, and fomo burnout is on the other. I want to have more adventures in this game. I want to not have to worry about chasing red borders anymore. I want to never look at a season pass or seasonal challenge checklist ever again. Pathfinder is just gonna make me more aware of how much Im not doing rituals each week.

I kinda feel like daniel craig who's just wrapped filming a Bond movie is immediately asked "aren't you excited to make another one :) "

And then there's the like, looming possibility that the studio is gonna bend backwards to make Destiny 3?? And no idea whats gonna happen after the three episodes. I hope those two questions are addressed on monday's livestream. I can't stop thinking about the layoffs, and how for years it sounded like they were committed to not overpromising, not crunching, building up a sustainable cadence of content. And then, seemingly because youtubers couldn't handle a story that wasn't spoonfed to them, Lightfall got so much bad press it got buried despite being an excellent expansion, and the seasonal content was also excellent, but so much bad press means 10% of the team has to get fired??? Including people who have nothing but huge Ws under their belt like the head composer or the lawyer who protects the community managers from harassment???? LITERALLY DECIMATED. Yeah of course I dont have the full picture, there's so much context and details I don't know. It's parasocial. But I don't feel as certain anymore that I get to support devs who are happy with their employers. I know they still love the game they make. I dunno. I dunno. Give everyone a year's paid vacation! Give everyone a raise! Give them all tenure! Stop fuckkng firing game devs!!! Please!!

The Final Shape, very good, good job destiny dev team, 9/10.

[bitchesgetriches]

Hi bitches! I work in tech and my company just laid off a lot of people. Luckily my partner and I were not affected, but I am devastated seeing friends and coworkers lose their jobs. I was already feeling burnt out but I can't rationalize taking time off when I'm terrified more layoffs are coming. I feel a lot of survivors guilt too - like it should have been me instead of my smarter coworkers. I've only been in the workforce for a few years and I have no idea how people can keep going on right now.

Do you have any advice on how to handle layoffs? And how to prepare if another round comes through?

Oh honey! The first thing to realize is that this is NOT your fault. You are our perfect angel baby and you have done no wrong.

I want to recommend our Burnout Workshop because frankly, it sounds like you could use it. Click that link to learn more.

Layoffs happen for lots of reasons. It's admirable that you're sad for your former coworkers--that shows your compassion muscles are working. But you're right to not give a shit about the company. You need to look out for yourself right now, NOT their bottom line nor even changing your performance so you'll be "safe" from layoffs.

Instead, take these layoffs as a sign of a sinking ship. Even if the company is doing fine now, do you really want to work for a place that axes your coworkers and leaves you in dread?

Polish your resume and start the process of looking for new work. Take your fate into your own hands and find somewhere that will treat you better.

I Lost My Job and It Might Be the Best Worst Thing That’s Ever Happened to Me

{ MASTERPOST } Everything You Need to Know about Getting a Job, Raise, or Promotion

Did we just help you out? Tip us!

[kylesvariouslistsandstuff]

More Pixar layoffs, because of upper Disney management blundering. 20% of their staff, though not imminent.

Apparently it's a lot of staff that were hired specifically for Disney+ projects, like DUG DAYS and the upcoming WIN OR LOSE. Pixar's scaling down again, and are probably just focusing on features and a handful of shorts. Like they always did.

The Walt Disney Company definitely went all-in on the Disney+ thing, like all these companies did. Streaming was the future be-all end-all, everything else is IRRELEVANT. Best Buy phasing out selling physical media in stores, David Zaslav erasing things, Disney initially withholding Marvel and Star Wars limited series from being shown *anywhere* else, the models for these shows clearly not working... It's like COVID-19 and the streaming blitz accelerated two entirely separate problems in movie-dom, and now we're seeing a sorry fallout of it all.

This is not dissimilar to Pixar opening a Vancouver unit in 2010, which would've handled shorts and specials, only for them to be closed down three years later and their entire staff (around 50-100 people) laid off. And it really sucks, because finding another job isn't all that easy, and being put in that position is stressful and anxiety-stoking to begin with...

It appears history kinda repeated itself in 2024, a little over four years after Disney+ launched. I liked the idea of more Pixar short-form stuff, it's a good way to revisit characters/worlds without having to do more sequels, but streaming can only go so far and it's clearly not making the revenue Disney and shareholders want. And who gets hit the hardest? The creatives, the crews, the people who actually do all the hard work, while the execs - who could probably float to another gig unscathed - fuck around at the top. There were layoffs last year, too, among them Angus MacLane, Galyn Susman, and Steve Purcell. Some real heavy-hitters there...

Of course, the less-educated will immediately see "layoffs" and whine that Pixar should go back to letting only five nerdy white dads direct movies. And that one of those dads, a toxic misogynist who rightfully got Me Too'd, should be their leader again. What kind of animation fan are you? Even if I didn't like the latest movies made at that studio, even hated them... I wouldn't want the people who have to work hard to keep a roof over their heads to get laid off, nor blame their misfortunes on how much you didn't like the teen panda movie. And wanting someone who made many women uncomfortable to be their boss again. The hell is he running another animation studio for? The hell is wrong with ya??

Anyways... I hope those who will be affected find work without struggle.

[genderplanet]

I think I lost every single person I can tell these things to so I'm reverting to my younger self and venting on tumblr:

1. I'm currently losing my job, I have no higher education so other job prospects in months/year of layoffs is just so minimal. I have no idea how ill feed myself or my cat. My chronic pains and fatigue and other health issues are detoriating

2. My mom is virtually disabled for past few months and definitely losing her job once she's back from rehabilitation/sanatorium. Her job is extremly physically demanding and she lost parts of her organs due to medical malpractice (idk when and if my mom gonna sue the hospital). So I have no idea how much later on I'll have to put myself into this. I'm already so exhausted as it is from these past months due to this shit. I hate doctors.

3. I've been in this weird peusdo whatever the fuck situationship for soon 2 years I think. She's been breaking all my boundaries and I had to sit through it all constantly in emotional pain, but last what seemed fun conversation I asked something invasive and now it's just she gets to tell me that we're gonna limit interactions n stuff like I'm so sorry but I'd rather have this highly disatisfactory and self destructive situationship than alone because I quite literally dont have anyone else and I'm unable to connect with anyone in a healthy manner so if she can handle my shit I'm happy about as far as it can go. Even if it hurts I'd rather have that than nothing.

4. I need to see my doctor again due to my heart problems. And now I think I mightve had some sort of a stroke or something two years ago. At the same time I hope I ☠️ bc of it.

5. I still have left overs of my debt for college which is suffocating me bc for past 4yrs I barely have money to eat but more properly so I have no idea how much more that debt grew in these years but it mightve doubled. And I still can't do shit about it.

6. Spent past half a year feeling quite ☠️dal and now for past almost a week that's all I can think about day in and out.

[aaalanasblog]

Journal Entry #1:

I have no idea what life is right now. I feel like when you hit 23-26, you begin to wonder what you’re even doing for real. You’re really a toddler-adult. Like I’ve only been here for three days??

I was affected by layoffs in 2023 and wasn’t able to find something else to keep my income stable during that time. It was frustrating having my income drop ✨drastically✨. But during the same year, I found newfound confidence in achieving my dream of becoming a pop artist?

I long let the dream go because I felt that I maybe was too weird; too ugly; too overweight; too anxious; too poor. I had auditioned for a few music variety shows in elementary, middle, and high school, and nothing ever stuck. So I just assumed that maybe it wasn’t fated?

But now at 25, I realize that I was made for this. It truly runs in the family, and now it’s my turn to decide between choosing my dream that’s a bit unconventional vs choosing stability. It’s been 7 months and I’m still choosing my dreams no matter how low my bank account gets; how frustrated I feel when I don’t pass auditions. It’s all building me up to become better.

The ideas I have? The talent I have? The work ethic I’ve gained? The maturity I’ve gained? It all needed to happen in this order I think. I want a long, successful, multi-faceted career. Little me wouldn’t be able to handle it at all. I’ve gained community through an academy I attended to learn dance that inspires me to keep going; I’ve done some in-person auditions to expose myself to higher-pressure situations so I can learn to ground myself; I’m learning and training myself at home to ensure my skills only grow, not plateau; I am actively making sacrifices so I can be better all-around. I have no choice but to succeed.

I’m just hoping that an entertainment company believes in me as much as I believe in myself. I recently submitted 2 auditions to companies that I truly see myself thriving in and believe I may be a good fit for based on their vision of disrupting the global music market (they are kpop company adjacent!). I didn’t choose them lightly. I even created a PDF to pitch myself with a letter and all. I wanted them to see that I’m serious about this. It’s not a quarter-life crisis; I’m not trying to prove “I still got it”. I want them to see that I want to make entertaining my full-time, long-term career. I want to inspire people with my story and with my life. There are so many people who give up on their dreams because of current reality, and I want to be an example that they don’t have to do so.

Being an entertainer, to me, is a huge job of service. You’re serving society and offering yourself to inspire others and facilitate conversation; to add to culture. It’s a beautiful thing that I don’t take lightly.

Anywho…lol I’ve rambled a lot. Idk why I even said all this here. I don’t think anyone who I’ve sent an audition to will see it. Did I say all this for the plot? lmao.

I just hope I’m able to at least do a training test run. It’s a gamble to accept a 25 year old. I just want a chance to prove myself and to show that I can truly do great things. Bring my vision to life. Idk.

Well I guess that’s all for now! Bye 🫶🏽

[jellibelli123]

Fr tho! They're soo meme poisoned that they'll toss aside any morality just to get their kick!

Against Ai? "But the memes it'll make" is the core example I point to that these idiots puke.

Rotted critical thinking, and poor logical reasoning, I have not found a single ai bro or memer who lacks these traits;

> incoming ai vent not directed at you < Can't wait for them to find out where these lazy fucks/bullies place will be once more when the owners of the ai make the ai start auto-generating itself.

"Its new opportunities, new jobs!!" Adapt fuckers, come on, adapt. Awwwhhh you can't keep up with something that is not just meant to replace artists but also you? Tsk tsk "Survival of the fittest" ai bro loser. Have you tried perhaps sucking the owner's cock some more? Maybe that trickle down economics of Capitalism will reach you if you did that harder. :3

"It's progress, a future we all need that will benefit humanity" New tech never fixed a society, I love the enthusiasm but let's come back down from cloud 9, the owners don't want you up there with them unless it's to serve them. Otherwise get back to the mines and sewers where your pains are more entertaining for them. And there are far too many cons to bringing generative algorithms in (bty its not ai, its generative algorithms; this isnt the movies where ai has come alive or is a person that can learn new skills. That's just the buzzword these companies shill to delude you into buying their snake oil and believe that a human coding in a new line of code equals it self learning.)

Also progress never ever meant more of something. Ai content spam (which is what these fucks intend to make it or want from it) will not ease your woes, it will not decrease prices either. Remember Netflix? Did they keep their decreased prices once blockbuster was out? No, they didn't. And "natural inflation" (🤣) wasnt the cause either.

All it is is more money being wrangled up into the chasm pockets of the owners and generations long capitalist class. You will never get a piece of that action because they took it and all the new ones that pop up. That's how capitalism went, and why Imperialism and capitalism go hand in hand to this day.

"But it'll get us better content than the lazy hollywood artists ever did!" Who do you think the ai is trained off of dumbass! And the bad content isnt because of lack of ability or enthusiasm, they got stiffed. The project wasn't funded nor managed properly because the owners and managers find it easier to do less for the same paycheck, and more money for their stocks. (Kinda why layoffs happen at the end of each year, to artificially bump up that income line) The guys making the content have to balance what they are paid with spending extra time to do something they want to do that could have been focused on getting other income to eat and survive on a basic level, and spend time with their families. You can't just keep people at work while stripping their income without causing fissures, they need a certain level of income before they are forced to look elsewhere! Ai won't fix those problems and you aren't going to get anything different from what you've been handed because once ai hits its profit equilibrium, its going to degrade as its foundations get ripped out to boost up the infinite growth fallacy Capitalism is!

"You're coping soo hard rn (or insert some ad-hominim" A common fallacy used when one's beliefs are challenged, easily uprooted and disposed of aka yur feewees gots hurts and u cants handle it 🥺👉👈 Cry more ya bullies, I came from a cult and know your kind 🤣

The internet is so fucking weird to artists who make anything interesting "thanks! I hate it" "this is cursed" "i love this but i hate this" you realize some people aren't drawing memes all the time right and art can be a medium of expressing complex feelings and writing off ppls expressions as a joke is so weird i hate meme poisoned weirdos

[cdlschoolnear9]

CDL Driving School Near Me

CDL Driving School Near Me: A Guide to Getting Started Behind the Wheel When you’re ready to make a change in your life—something steady, skill-based, and full of opportunity—searching for a CDL driving school near me could be the very first step toward a career with serious momentum. Whether you're looking to transition out of a desk job, start fresh after a layoff, or finally follow through on a dream of being on the road, getting trained as a commercial driver opens doors in every direction. But what can you really expect from a CDL driving school? How do these programs work, and what makes them worth the time and investment? In this guide, we’ll explore what it means to train for your Commercial Driver’s License, what to expect in the process, and why choosing a local school could be one of the smartest decisions you make.

Why a CDL Driving School Matters Earning a CDL isn’t something you can do overnight. It takes training, practice, and confidence. That’s where a quality CDL driving school near you becomes crucial. A school gives you more than just a license—it teaches you how to be a safe, knowledgeable, and employable driver. And that matters, especially in an industry where safety, professionalism, and skill are in high demand. Here are a few reasons people are choosing to invest in CDL training: • Strong Career Opportunities: From local deliveries to long-haul trucking, commercial drivers are needed across multiple industries. • Faster Entry into the Workforce: Compared to four-year college degrees or even two-year trade programs, CDL school can typically be completed in just a few weeks. • Consistent Paychecks: Many CDL holders enjoy dependable incomes, benefits, and even bonuses depending on their chosen route and experience level. • Personal Growth: The confidence that comes from mastering a heavy-duty vehicle, understanding DOT rules, and handling real-world driving challenges is life-changing. If you’ve been wondering if a CDL school could be the right next move, the answer could be parked just down the road.

What Does a CDL Driving School Offer? When searching “CDL driving school near me,” it’s important to understand what a quality program includes. Most schools are built around a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Together, these prepare you for both the written and skills portions of your CDL test. Here’s what a typical training journey looks like:

Classroom Learning This phase of your education is all about building a strong foundation. Topics you’ll cover may include: • Commercial driving laws and regulations • Vehicle inspection procedures • Safety and emergency protocols • Logbook and hours-of-service rules • Weight distribution and cargo securement • Hazardous materials (if applicable) This knowledge prepares you to pass the CDL written exam and ensures you’re up to speed on federal Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements.

Hands-On Vehicle Training Once the classroom work is complete, you’ll get into the driver’s seat. Most schools use designated training yards and real roads to give students the full experience. This is where you’ll learn to: • Perform pre-trip inspections • Shift gears (manual or automatic transmission) • Safely back up and park • Navigate turns and corners in larger vehicles • Handle highways, intersections, and city streets • Drive in different weather conditions, if applicable Behind-the-wheel time is where you build your confidence and muscle memory—critical for passing the road test and thriving as a driver.

Test Preparation and Support The CDL exam is broken into several parts: • Written Knowledge Test • Vehicle Inspection Test • Skills Test (including maneuvers like straight-line backing and parallel parking) • On-the-Road Driving Exam A strong driving school will ensure you’re prepared for each of these with practice runs, test simulations, and personalized coaching. Some even provide job readiness support or connections to local employers—but the core focus is on preparing you to earn your CDL and drive safely.

The Benefits of Choosing a Local CDL School Typing CDL driving school near me into a search engine is more than just a convenience—it’s often a smart move. Local schools offer several advantages that can make your training experience smoother, more affordable, and more relevant to the jobs you’re targeting.

Familiar Roads and Conditions Learning to drive in the area where you’ll likely work means you’re gaining experience in real, practical environments. You’ll train on local roads, practice maneuvers in nearby traffic patterns, and get a sense of what your daily routes might look like.

Shorter Commutes Let’s face it—commuting hours just to learn how to drive long hours isn’t ideal. A local school keeps things simple. You spend less time getting to class and more time focusing on your training.

Community-Based Networking Many local CDL schools have long-standing relationships with area employers. Even if they don’t offer job placement, they often know what companies are looking for and can help you prepare accordingly.

What to Look for in a CDL Driving School Near You Not all driving schools are the same. When choosing a CDL driving school near you, here are a few qualities to prioritize: • Licensed and Accredited: Make sure the school is approved by your state’s Department of Licensing and meets all DOT standards. • Experienced Instructors: Look for instructors with real-world driving experience and a reputation for effective teaching. • Modern Equipment: You want to train on vehicles that reflect what you’ll be driving on the job. • Reasonable Class Sizes: Smaller classes often mean more personalized attention. • Clear Curriculum: A school should have a structured program that outlines what’s taught and when. Training is an investment in your future—so it’s okay to ask questions and make sure a school truly fits your needs.

How Long Does CDL Training Take? Training length can vary, but most full-time CDL programs take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks to complete. Some part-time or evening programs are available for those balancing jobs or family commitments. The total duration will also depend on whether you’re going for: • Class A License: For tractor-trailers and heavy cargo. Usually the longest training due to the complexity of the vehicles. • Class B License: For box trucks, dump trucks, or buses. Slightly shorter programs. • Class C License: For small passenger vehicles or hazmat transport. Less intensive, depending on the endorsement needed. Be sure to ask what license types the school prepares students for—and how long you can expect your training to last.

The Cost of CDL Training (and Why It’s Worth It) The cost of a CDL program will depend on the school, the type of license you’re pursuing, and the length of the course. In general, you can expect to invest anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000. While that might sound steep, it’s helpful to think of it as an investment in a lifelong skill set with high earning potential. Many students find creative ways to cover the cost: • Workforce retraining programs • Military veteran education benefits • Payment plans offered by schools • State or local grants for high-demand careers Choosing a local school can sometimes cut down on additional costs like travel, lodging, or food—another reason “CDL driving school near me” might be your best bet.

Life After Graduation: What Comes Next? Once you earn your CDL, the next step is to gain experience and build your reputation. Many new drivers start with entry-level positions such as: • Delivery routes for local businesses • Regional or dedicated freight runs • Bus or shuttle driving • Construction or equipment transport Over time, you may choose to specialize by adding endorsements or upgrading to more complex vehicle classes. And with each mile you drive safely, you’re building a career that’s stable, respected, and full of potential.

Conclusion: Your New Road Starts Here Searching for a CDL driving school near me might feel like a small first step—but it’s actually the turning point toward a new future. CDL training opens the door to a career that’s high in demand, pays well, and offers the kind of freedom that few jobs can match. From classroom learning to real-life driving practice, a local school gives you the tools to succeed—not just on your test day, but for years to come. It puts you on the road with confidence, skill, and a clear sense of direction. So if you’re ready to stop wondering and start moving, don’t wait. Your next career is out there—and it just might be waiting behind the wheel.

cdl #trucking #truckdriver #trucker #cdldriver #trucks #truckerlife #truckinglife #truck #freight #truckdrivers #bigrig #driver #cdllife #freightliner #washington #pnw #seattle #usa #newyork #washingtonstate #california #washingtondc

[carlhofelina]

Build Your Dream Team Without Delays: A Smarter Approach to Scaling Your Business

Running a business requires the right team. But hiring full-time employees can be time-consuming and expensive. What if you could get expert support without the delays of traditional hiring?

Best Virtual Specialist provides businesses with on-demand professionals who are ready to step in and support operations immediately. Whether you need administrative support, digital marketing expertise, or lead generation services, our team is equipped to help you grow efficiently and affordably.

The Challenges of Traditional Hiring

Recruiting, onboarding, and training employees take time and resources. Here are some of the most common obstacles businesses face:

Time-consuming process: Hiring full-time employees can take weeks or even months.

High costs: Salaries, benefits, and office expenses add up quickly.

Limited flexibility: Full-time employees come with long-term commitments.

Skill gaps: Finding candidates with the right expertise can be difficult.

Businesses need an alternative that provides skilled professionals without the usual hiring headaches. That’s where virtual specialists come in.

Why Virtual Specialists Are the Ideal Solution

Virtual specialists allow businesses to scale faster and more efficiently. Here’s why they make a difference:

1. Immediate Availability

Unlike traditional hires, virtual specialists are ready to work right away. You don’t have to wait weeks for onboarding. They integrate seamlessly into your operations, so you see results quickly.

2. Cost-Effective Support

Virtual specialists eliminate the need for salaries, benefits, and office space. You only pay for the services you need, which makes scaling more affordable.

3. Specialized Expertise

Whether you need administrative support, digital marketing, or lead generation, virtual specialists bring the skills required to get the job done. They stay up to date with the latest industry trends, ensuring your business remains competitive.

4. Increased Flexibility

Virtual teams offer the flexibility to scale up or down as needed. If your workload changes, you can adjust your team size without the hassle of hiring or layoffs.

5. More Time for Core Business Activities

With a virtual team handling administrative tasks, marketing, and lead generation, you can focus on strategy, growth, and customer relationships.

Services That Help You Scale Quickly

Best Virtual Specialist offers a range of services designed to support your business growth without delays.

Administrative Support

Managing a business involves numerous administrative tasks that can consume valuable time. Our virtual specialists handle:

Scheduling and calendar management

Email and inbox management

Data entry and organization

Customer service support

With administrative tasks taken care of, you can focus on growing your business without distractions.

Digital Marketing

A strong online presence is essential for business success. Our digital marketing specialists provide:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to improve your website’s ranking

Content marketing to engage your audience

Email marketing campaigns to nurture leads

Social media management to build brand awareness

With our digital marketing expertise, you can increase visibility and attract more customers.

Demand and Lead Generation

Generating quality leads is crucial for growth. Our team specializes in:

Identifying and targeting potential customers

Creating engaging outreach campaigns

Nurturing leads through personalized communication

Implementing data-backed strategies to maximize ROI

We ensure your business consistently attracts and converts high-value leads.

How to Get Started

Building your ideal team doesn’t have to be a long and complicated process. Here’s how you can get started with Best Virtual Specialist:

Assess Your Needs: Identify the tasks you need support with.

Connect with Us: Visit our website to explore our services.

Select Your Services: Choose the solutions that fit your business goals.

Start Scaling: Our specialists get to work, helping you achieve results immediately.

Conclusion

You don’t have to spend months building the perfect team. With Best Virtual Specialist, you can get expert support without delays. Whether you need administrative assistance, digital marketing expertise, or lead generation strategies, we provide the solutions that help your business grow.

Start building your dream team today. Contact us today to learn more.

[nikhilvaidya27]

How to Cope with Mass Layoffs: A Practical Guide for Employees

By Nikhil Vaidya – Founder, Prism HRC & YOGA365

Mass layoffs are more than just losing a job—they affect financial stability, mental health, and career confidence. But over my 14 years consulting job seekers and employers, I’ve seen how setbacks can turn into career breakthroughs—if handled strategically.

A layoff is not the end of your career—it’s a transition. Let’s navigate it smartly, strategically, and stress-free.

1️) Acknowledge the Situation & Stay Calm

Layoffs feel personal, but most are driven by business factors beyond your control. ✅ Accept your emotions, but don’t let them dictate your next steps. ✅ Reframe the situation—this could be an opportunity to explore better career options. ✅ Join support groups (LinkedIn communities, Telegram groups) where others share job leads and insights.

2)  Know Your Rights & Secure Finances

Before jumping into job applications, understand your financial safety net: ✔️ Check your Termination Benefits – Ensure you get what you’re entitled to. ✔️ Claim unemployment benefits – If applicable in your country, apply ASAP. ✔️ Cut unnecessary expenses – Adjust your budget to ease financial pressure.

💡 Tip: Some companies offer free career counseling or job placement services—ask HR before leaving.

3) Leverage AI for Faster Job Search

AI is changing how hiring works. Use it to speed up your job hunt:

 Use AI-powered resume builders – Tools like Zety, Resume.io, or Teal make your CV stand out.

 Optimize your LinkedIn profile with AI suggestions – LinkedIn AI tools improve keywords for recruiter visibility.

 AI-driven job-matching platforms – Sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Prism HRC use AI to suggest roles based on your skills and experience.

Practice AI-based mock interviews – Use ChatGPT, InterviewBuddy, or HireVue to sharpen your interview skills.

4) Upskill with High-Demand Skills

The job market is evolving—stay relevant with new skills: 📌 AI & Data Analytics – Many roles now require basic AI knowledge. 📌 Digital Marketing – Companies seek online growth experts. 📌 Project Management & Leadership – Crucial in all industries.

🚀 Best Free Upskilling Platforms: ✅ Google & Meta Certifications (Free on Coursera) ✅ Microsoft AI Skills Challenge (AI & cloud training) ✅ Udemy, Skillshare, and LinkedIn Learning

5) Targeted Job Applications: Quality Over Quantity

❌ Don’t mass-apply to hundreds of jobs. Instead: ✅ Identify 10-15 companies that align with your skills & goals. ✅ Customize your resume for each role (use AI tools like Jobscan). ✅ Reach out directly to hiring managers on LinkedIn—referrals increase hiring chances 4x.

💡 Tip: Recruiters look for soft skills like adaptability & leadership. Highlight these in applications!

6) Consider Freelancing & Side Hustles

A layoff can be an opportunity to explore independent work: 💰 Freelancing on Fiverr, Upwork, or Toptal – IT, marketing, writing, and finance skills are in demand. 🎓 Online teaching & content creation – Platforms like Udemy & YouTube offer passive income or you can teach in traditional way, search for offline coachings to teach. 💡 Consulting & coaching – If you're experienced, companies may pay for your expertise.

Some professionals turn freelancing into a full-time career!

7) Prioritize Mental Health & Stress Management

Losing a job is mentally exhausting, but resilience starts with self-care:

 Practice yoga & mindfulness – Even 10 minutes a day can reduce stress.  

Set a daily routine – Keep your day structured to avoid burnout.

Talk to mentors or career coaches – Guidance makes the transition easier.

Reduce screen time & negative news – Focus on growth, not setbacks.

At YOGA365, I’ve seen how corporate professionals use yoga to stay calm, focused, and motivated during career transitions.

8) Stay Positive & Keep Moving Forward

A layoff is not the end—it’s a pivot. 🔹 Many professionals land higher-paying, more fulfilling jobs post-layoff. 🔹 Keep learning, networking, and applying strategically. 🔹 Trust the process—opportunities will come!

Need Career Support? Let’s Connect!

At Prism HRC, we help job seekers with career coaching, hiring trends, and job placements. At YOGA365, we support professionals in managing stress & mental well-being.

You’re not alone in this journey—let’s turn this challenge into an opportunity!

📩 Need guidance? Reach out today!

📲 Connect with Prism HRC🔗 Website:Prism HRC 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jobssimplified/?hl=en

📲 Connect with Nikhil Vaidya🔗 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nikhil-vaidya-387b1a13