"Things Are Not OK": When Public Service Meets Personal Pain, and What We Can Do About It

Brian Gibbs and his family in a photo shared by the Effigy Mounds National Monument on Facebook. 

The digital echo of a National Park Service ranger's post, "Things are not ok," has reverberated far beyond the usual LinkedIn scroll. It's a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the human cost of organizational change, a stark reminder that behind every headline about layoffs, there are individuals grappling with real, tangible pain.

That this occurred on Valentine's Day adds a layer of poignant irony. A day meant for celebrating connection became a day of sudden disconnection for hundreds of dedicated public servants. It’s a moment that demands our attention, not just as professionals, but as fellow humans.

The Human Cost of "Restructuring"

We often talk about layoffs in sterile, corporate terms. "Restructuring," "downsizing," "rightsizing." But these euphemisms mask the very real emotional and financial turmoil that individuals face. The ranger's post, and the stories of their colleagues, remind us that:

• Job loss is a personal crisis: It's not just about losing a paycheck; it's about losing a sense of purpose, security, and identity.

• Emotional wounds run deep: The uncertainty and anxiety that follow a layoff can take a significant toll on mental health.

• Families are affected: Job loss ripples through households, impacting spouses, children, and loved ones.

A Call for Compassionate Leadership

In the face of such vulnerability, leaders have a critical role to play.

• Lead with empathy: Acknowledge the emotional impact of job loss. Create safe spaces for open dialogue and provide resources for those who are struggling.

• Offer support and guidance: Help affected individuals navigate the job search process, provide networking opportunities, and offer mentorship.

• Champion resilience: Remind them that setbacks are temporary and that new opportunities await.

Beyond Traditional Qualifications: Recognizing the Value of Public Service

The individuals affected by these layoffs, especially those from the National Park Service, possess a unique set of skills and qualities that are highly valuable in today's workforce.

• Dedication to public service: They have demonstrated a commitment to serving their communities and protecting our natural resources.

• Transferable skills: They possess a wide range of skills, including communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability.

• A strong work ethic: They are dedicated, reliable, and passionate about their work.

Therefore, I urge hiring managers to:

• Look beyond traditional qualifications: Consider the value of transferable skills and the unique experiences that government employees bring to the table.

• Give them a chance: Open your doors to these talented individuals and provide them with opportunities to contribute to your organizations.

• Recognize the value of diverse experience: People who have worked in public service have often had to deal with extremely varied situations, and have very valuable people skills.

Let's turn this moment of adversity into an opportunity to recognize the value of public service and to create pathways for these dedicated individuals to thrive in new roles.

In a world that often prioritizes profits over people, let's choose to lead with compassion and create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.