When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned: Lessons from Alaska and Job Search

We make plans with great anticipation—whether it’s a long-awaited vacation, a new role, or the next chapter in our careers. We imagine how things will unfold, what milestones we’ll hit, and the experiences we’ll enjoy. But sometimes, life has other ideas. 

On my recent trip to Alaska, I was reminded of this truth in a very personal way. After months of planning, we embarked on what was meant to be the adventure of a lifetime: a trip combining the wild beauty of Alaska’s interior with a much-anticipated 11-day cruise. 

The first week could not have been more perfect. We explored the rugged interior, stood in awe of Denali, marveled at wildlife, and took in the vastness of Alaska’s landscapes. It was everything we had hoped for—and more. 

But then, unexpectedly, I became ill. And with that, our long-anticipated cruise was no longer possible. The disappointment was sharp. We had pictured ourselves on that ship for months, and now that part of the journey was gone. 

Yet, as I looked back, I realized something important: the seven days we did experience were still extraordinary. The trip was still amazing, even though it didn’t look exactly like we had planned. 

This experience mirrors what so many people go through when they lose a job. Losing a role you’ve invested in—sometimes for years—can feel like having your “cruise” taken away. It wasn’t part of the plan. The disappointment, worry, and sense of loss are real. 

But here’s the perspective: your career isn’t erased because of one setback. Just like my memories of Alaska’s mountains and wildlife remain, the skills, experiences, and relationships you’ve built over your career still matter. They are the foundation you carry with you into the next chapter. 

Yes, a job loss is a disruption. It wasn’t on the itinerary you imagined. But often, in the search process, people discover opportunities they never expected. They find roles that align better with their strengths, values, and aspirations. They uncover paths they might not have explored if life had gone “according to plan.” 

Resilience in the Face of Setbacks 

The first step is allowing yourself to feel the disappointment. Just as I had to accept that the cruise wasn’t going to happen, acknowledging the reality of a job loss is important. Ignoring or minimizing it doesn’t help—you need to give yourself space to process. 

But the second step is just as critical: reframing. Instead of focusing only on what was lost, shift attention to what remains and what’s possible. Your talents, your experiences, and your professional story are still intact. These are powerful tools to carry into what comes next. 

Practical Steps to Move Forward 

When plans go awry, structure and action can provide a sense of direction. For job seekers, that might mean: 

• Building a routine: Treat your job search like a job. Set daily goals—whether it’s networking conversations, applications, or skill-building. 

• Reaching out to your network: Most opportunities come through people, not postings. Let others know you’re in transition. Be clear about your value and the type of opportunities you’re seeking. 

• Investing in yourself: Use this time to sharpen skills, complete certifications, or explore areas of interest you never had time for. This not only builds confidence but can also open new doors. 

• Seeking support: Career coaches, mentors, and peer groups can provide perspective, encouragement, and accountability. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. 

Finding Joy in the Unexpected 

The irony of my trip is that while the cruise didn’t happen, the memories of Alaska’s interior have stayed with me as the true highlight. Sometimes the part of the journey we didn’t plan becomes the most meaningful. 

The same is true in a career transition. Many individuals I’ve coached have told me, months later, that while losing their job was painful, the role they eventually landed was a far better fit. Some even describe it as the best career move they never would have chosen for themselves. 

A Final Thought 

Alaska reminded me that while not everything goes as planned, life still offers beauty, possibility, and hope. The same is true in a job search: what feels like an ending may, in fact, be the beginning of something even better. 

The story is not over. It’s simply unfolding in a way you didn’t anticipate. And sometimes, that’s where the greatest discoveries happen.