While elated to be out of your khaki livery and noshing on organic fare that tastes like Michelin-starred cuisine, even though it’s from the Whole Foods salad bar, you will soon encounter the most challenging phase of your journey, re-entry.

Re-entry is the term used post-sabbatical when you “re-enter” society and attempt to reacclimate and secure employment.

You may soon be startled to find that your numerous educational achievements are irrelevant when they are followed by the Scarlet F.  You might as well put a S.F. after your B.A. and M.A. as it negates everything written prior.

Applying for jobs doing clerical work, from taking appointments at the Dentist’s office to assisting at your local Salvation Army may seem like natural fits, albeit drastically different than your pre-staycay positions, you might not even be considered given your new S.F.

Felon friendly jobs include transportation…fancy yourself behind a 16 wheeler?  Food industry….perhaps you are a night owl and like working VERY early morning hours preparing bread?

Rejection will be a constant reminder of your lone error and it’s easy to fall into a Felon Funk.  This applies to both professional and personal relationships.  You can’t rely on anyone to secure your happiness, YOU need to create the opportunities and environment to succeed.

Don’t get disheartened….which is easy to do….KEEP applying, KEEP positive.  Eventually someone will see that you are more than a single mistake and provide you with a much deserved second chance!!!