“Storage is Full,” Delete Files for More Space

Part 3:  A Black Woman’s Opinion to Navigate a 2023 Layoff

Over the past six months or so, I’ve continued to receive these prompts throughout my Google Suite accounts, demanding that I make a decision to either purchase additional storage space or delete some of the items within the account so that it can continue to function properly. However, I’ve tried everything to free up space. I’ve deleted all of my spam, trash, old files, and emails. Yet, the same message, “storage is full…delete files for more space,” continues to prompt me every time I sign in. 

“If you can’t start to imagine a different life, that’s an indication that you’re already living behind fear.” – 19 Keys

Although irritating, these repetitive prompts have served as reminders of inevitable decisions. Not the “straddle the fence” choices that I’ve found comfort in making my entire life, where there was just enough change to push me out of my comfort zone without truly disrupting comfort. Reflecting back on my January 2023 layoff, I realize how that moment interrupted patterns in my life, teaching me that letting go is the only way I can make space for the life that I, NOW, want to live. Similar to my Gmail dilemma, the only way that I can move forward is to either delete most of what I’ve saved over the years or start a new account. The bottom line is that in this phase of life, CHANGE and PRIORITIZING are essential.

“The only person I’m jealous of is my future self.” – 19 Keys

Within me, and quite frankly all of us, is a realm of genius (a.k.a greatness) that has yet to be revealed. For most of my life, I’ve spent more time hiding and making others comfortable instead of maximizing my greatest potential. As I scrub my drive, I see a decade of aborted dreams and ideas, and the only explanation as to why I didn’t finish is fear. Years ago, Marianne Williamson eloquently said, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate…we are powerful beyond measure.” And yes, when pitted against others, some may say, “you are doing an amazing job, or you’re simply not going hard enough.” But, we are not here to judge or compete with others because we exist to reach OUR HIGHEST POTENTIAL. 

“I may have to change too many things if I start living fearlessly.” – 19 Keys

Almost six months post-layoff, the lessons I’ve learned have been far greater than what I’ve achieved. To end this series of articles, I’d like to leave you with some gems I’ve found along the way that will continue to not only guide my career journey but my life moving forward. 

1. The WORK was FINISHED the day you were born. REST in knowing that life will provide clues to unlock your greatness.
2. You’re the MASTERPIECE(PEACE). You’re part of a greater picture, so don’t be afraid to live outside of fear.
3. Every moment provides two options: “Win or Learn.” -Nelson Mandela. Learn quickly so that you can WIN again and again.
4. MAKE SPACE for your greatness. Holding only blocks your opportunity to grow.

YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY PARTS ONE AND TWO OF THIS SERIES