After the News on my Contract: This Is Where I Am Right Now

Since I received the news that my contract will not be renewed, I’ve noticed my nights have become more restless. During the day I can usually keep my thoughts organised, but at night they tend to return. Questions about what comes next, where things might lead.

Earlier, on March 2, I wrote that my third temporary contract will be coming to an end and will not be extended. Since then people have occasionally asked how I’m doing now. So here is a small, honest update.

Looking back at that post

In that earlier post I wrote that my contract will end after three temporary contracts. Sooner or later many people face a moment like that, but that does not automatically make it easier.

The reactions from the people close to me were not only surprised, but also warm and supportive. That helps. At the same time, it does not change the situation itself: the contract will end and a new phase begins.

Restless nights

Since hearing the news, my nights have occasionally been a bit more restless. Not dramatic, but enough to notice that it stays on my mind.

During the day it is easier to approach things rationally. There are steps you can take, people you can contact, vacancies you can look at. At night it works differently. Those questions simply come back again.

That is probably just part of the process.

Not the youngest anymore

One of the thoughts that plays a role here is something many people encounter sooner or later: age and the labour market.

I am not the youngest anymore. That does not mean there are no opportunities, but it does make you look at the future slightly differently, especially when it comes to things like permanent contracts.

Those are exactly the thoughts that tend to appear more easily at night than during the day.

The previous time was different

This is not the first time I have experienced a situation like this. In the past I have gone through something similar.

Still, it feels different now. Circumstances have changed and I am in a different stage of life than I was back then. That inevitably changes how you look at what comes next.

Working in Friesland

Another difference compared to back then is the region where I live and work.

At that time I lived in the central part of the Netherlands. There are simply more companies there, and therefore more job opportunities. The labour market is broader.

Here in Friesland things are different. There are fewer companies and therefore fewer places to go. That does not mean there are no possibilities, but the market is simply smaller.

Not standing still

In the meantime I am obviously not standing still.

Around the same time I published my blog post I also shared on LinkedIn that I am open to new work opportunities. The responses there have been very positive. People wishing me well, but also people offering ideas or connections.

I have reached out to my network in the hope that new opportunities will emerge from those conversations. The first job applications have also been sent.

These are steps you can take, and they help to keep the feeling that you are moving forward.

This is where I am right now

For now, this is simply where I am.

My contract is coming to an end, I am actively looking for what comes next and I am trying to make the most of my network. Where that will lead exactly, I do not know yet.

Maybe that is simply part of this moment. This is the situation as it is now. From here, I move forward.

If you think we should have a conversation about a possible role or collaboration, feel free to reach out through the contact form. My inbox is always open.