In April, I was laid off from OutSystems, marking the start of the hardest job search of my 20-year career. But instead of focusing on the negatives, I decided to see it as a chance to reset and grow.
This time gave me space to reconnect with my family, especially my two-year-old daughter, Sol. It wasn’t always easy—toddler tantrums are no joke—but I finally had the mental clarity and patience I’d been missing. I also took the opportunity to reflect on my career, revisiting past projects and turning them into stories I could use in interviews.
On the professional side, I reconnected with the design world. I co-founded UXPA Portugal, spoke at events, and started mentoring designers globally—a truly rewarding experience. I also took advanced courses to stay ahead in areas like AI interfaces and UX strategy, preparing myself for my next leadership role.
These six months weren’t just a career pause; they were a transformation. I’ve come out stronger, more focused, and ready for what’s next. It’s not just a comeback—it’s a fresh start.
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