September Reflections: Mindset, Career Pivots & Trying New Things

September marked my first full month of focused job hunting — and it really was a whirlwind. As we head into the final stretch of 2025, I want to share what I’ve learned and hear from others navigating similar transitions.

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Conversations That Kept Me Moving

This month was filled with coffees, lunches, video calls, and job applications. While I’m still jobless, I’ve stayed mostly positive. Sure, I’d be in a better headspace if something was lined up, but reconnecting with people has been a highlight.

Meeting people sparked new ideas — sometimes confusing, but always invigorating — and even inspired me to write about my experience of failing as a law firm partner. It’s been energising to talk, share, and listen — and to rediscover my enjoyment of writing and researching — all while being present for my kids and family.

💬 What’s been your biggest takeaway from networking this year? Comment below — or subscribe at browngeek.net to join the conversation.

Reading the Market – and the Mood

Conversations this month surprised me — many others are in the same boat: recently let go, senior, and trying to find their place in a shifting landscape. Those still in work seem optimistic, busy, and see a pipeline of work into 2026, though they also note budget freezes and hiring skewed towards junior roles.

My hunch is that a year-end rush could unlock hiring momentum in 2026. I hope I’m right.

Finding (and Making) My Own Luck

My key takeaway this month is simple: keep connecting and keep showing up — not just with my usual network, but with people in entirely different sectors. I don’t know where my next job lies, but I know luck plays a role — and I believe you have to create your own luck by being proactive.

Part of this proactivity has meant applying for roles I never would have considered before and learning to transfer my legal skills into broader business contexts. It’s been a real mindset shift — away from thinking of myself purely as a private practice lawyer, toward thinking about how to help run an entire business.

I’ve realised I have more transferable skills than I once gave myself credit for: managing teams, juggling competing priorities, launching products, marketing, presenting, negotiating, and solving problems. These skills are relevant far beyond law.

This shift has tested my identity — the only professional identity I’d ever known.

The Mental Game of Job Hunting

Job hunting has its mental toll. The waiting, the follow-ups, the applications — with no immediate results — can play tricks on your mind and shake your confidence. I know this is a long game, but some days the uncertainty is hard to sit with.

Consistency Is King

Since re-launching this blog, I’ve published 13 articles in about a month. I can’t keep that pace forever, but I’m committed to consistency.

I’ve also been showing up more consistently on other platforms. Traction is still slow, but right now it’s about learning by doing and improving along the way rather than waiting until everything is perfect.

Staying Grounded: Routines, Kids, and Small Wins

What keeps me grounded is routine — and my kids (no chance of sleeping in!). I exercise regularly, eat well, read, write, and make time for friends.

The upside of not working is more time for school drop-offs, dinners, and homework. Of course, there are days when I do nothing but scroll — but I’m working on that.

Looking Ahead: Experimenting and Learning

The biggest upside of this period is freedom to experiment — whether that’s writing here, building my presence on LinkedIn, exploring courses to upskill, or testing new ideas I hope to share soon.

My goal is simple: stay engaged, keep learning, and keep moving forward.

💬 If you’ve been through a career pivot, what helped you stay focused and positive? Share your thoughts in the comments — or subscribe at browngeek.net to follow along with my journey.