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Why High Performers Never Fear Layoffs—And How You Can Do the Same

Layoffs. Financial uncertainty. The fear of the unknown.

Most people worry about them.

High performers? They prepare.

The difference isn’t luck—it’s strategy. The most successful professionals don’t just rely on their paychecks; they make their money work for them. Here’s how you can do the same.

1. Save More Than You Spend

This isn’t about cutting out every joy in life. It’s about being intentional.

  • Manage your earn-and-spend ratio. Set a goal to save or invest a portion of your income each month—no matter how small.
  • Build an emergency fund. Aim for at least 10 months’ worth of expenses in a high-yield savings account. I keep 3–6 months in cash but have investments I can tap into if needed.
  • Plan your backup strategy. I live in a luxury condo near Washington, DC, but if necessary, I could rent it out and relocate somewhere more affordable. My investment properties give me that flexibility—without financial stress.

2. Create Passive Income Through Investments

Passive income isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s a necessity in today’s economy.

  • Invest in what you know. I started small, buying shares of companies I trusted—Google, Apple, Tesla, Microsoft—through my IRA.
  • Use real estate as a safety net. After my divorce, I took my share of the primary home and invested in my first rental property. That decision paid off—literally. When I faced a five-month layoff, that property provided a financial cushion.
  • Think long-term. I consistently invest in my 401(k), mutual funds, and index funds. Even small, steady investments add up. A $20k annual investment with an 11% return can double in 10 years.

Still waiting for a bigger paycheck to feel secure? You’ll feel the same when you get there.

Because security isn’t about a salary number—it’s about how you use what you have.

Unexpected expenses happen. My investment property once needed thousands in repairs that weren’t covered by insurance, but my financial plan absorbed the hit. That’s the power of making your money work for you.

3. The Real Goal: Freedom

This isn’t about scarcity. It’s about building a life where money is a tool—not a source of fear.

A tool for your dreams.
For the causes you care about.
For building generational wealth.

For me, it’s about supporting the next generation in my family and inspiring others to do the same.

When you take control of your finances, you become resilient—ready to rise, no matter what comes your way.

That’s just one piece of how high performers stay ahead. Inside my Phoenix Coaching Framework for Rising Leaders, there are two more strategies that make you truly layoff-proof.

With all three? You become invincible.

Let’s make it happen. [Book a call today.]

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