How Clay Garrett Turned a Layoff Into a Life of Intention
Slowing down to rediscover what matters most
Clay Garrett spent 25 years in design and advertising before a COVID-era layoff forced him to pause. What could have been a setback became an unexpected gift. He chose to invest in family, purpose, and simplicity, reshaping both his work and his life.
Follow Clay’s Journeys on Campfire Gentlemen: https://campfiregentleman.beehiiv.com/
🎧 Listen here: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/follow
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When Clay lost his job right before the world shut down, he found himself asking bigger questions: What if success wasn’t about the next title or paycheck, but about being fully present? His shift is a reminder that slowing down can sometimes be the most effective way to move forward.
Three things to think about
A pause you didn’t choose might still be an invitation to reset.
Success without presence often feels empty.
Investing in relationships pays dividends no job can match.
Two things to ask yourself
What part of my life feels more like a checklist than a choice?
How can I create intentional space for what matters this week?
One thing to try this week
Schedule one uninterrupted hour with a family member or close friend. Put those phones away. Show up with full presence. Notice what shifts.
Clay’s story is about redefining success on your own terms. If it resonates, I’d love for you to listen and let me know which part connected with you most.
Matt
🎧 Listen: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/follow
📺 Watch: www.youtube.com/@thelifeshiftpodcast
I created a short-form podcast, “It’s Okay If…” Each episode is under three minutes long and provides a permission slip to be human. I’d be honored if you subscribed to the show. New episodes are released every Wednesday at noon ET.
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