It was a typical sunny day, and I was strolling through downtown, minding my own business when suddenly—splash!—I was drenched in saltwater. Now, this was unexpected, even for me. Looking up, I saw none other than SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, frantically waving from a giant puddle of ocean water that had no business being there.
“Bruce! Oh wow, it’s really you!” SpongeBob squealed, his big blue eyes lighting up. “Patrick, it’s Bruce Schutter! The Mental Health Warrior guy!
He struggled for 20 years with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD—challenges that left him feeling so powerless that he tried to end his life. But with a second chance, he had a life-changing realization: Mental health is the key to overcoming any challenge!
Armed with that knowledge, he created the Mental Health Warrior Program—a revolutionary SELF-HELP approach designed to help everyone take charge of their emotions, triumph over challenges, and build the life they truly want!
I nodded, slightly bewildered but already grinning. “Yep, that’s me. But…uh, why is there a puddle of ocean water in the middle of the sidewalk?”
“No time for that!” SpongeBob waved me off dramatically. “We’re in big trouble, Bruce. Layoffs.”
Patrick leaned in, whispering like it was classified information. “The Krusty Krab is downsizing...and we don’t know what to do.”
A Warrior’s Approach to Uncertainty
SpongeBob is a fellow Mental Health Warrior, always beaming with optimism and relentless energy. But today? He looked shaken.
I put a reassuring hand on his spongey shoulder. “SpongeBob, this is the perfect time for the Mental Health Warrior Creed: ‘Bend, NOT Break.’”
“It’s a powerful starting point for handling uncertainty. You can’t always control what happens to you, but you CAN control how you respond.”
“How do we use this?” SpongeBob asked. “Like, right now?”
I grinned. “Glad you asked. The Warrior Creed is a core part of my book, I Triumphed Over Bipolar, Alcoholism, and Anxiety Disorder by Becoming a Mental Health Warrior. It helped me navigate my own battles—including the times when layoffs threatened my job. Let me share three key moments when I used the ‘Bend, Not Break’ mindset to push through uncertainty.”
Example 1: Staying in Control Instead of Spiraling
“There was a time when I worked in Information Technology, and my company was bought out. Layoffs were on the horizon. In the past, when I felt powerless, I’d turn to alcohol or other bad short-term solutions to escape my emotions. But as a Warrior, I didn’t let fear break me!
Instead, I focused on doing my best work so that I wouldn’t be seen as an ‘extra.’ But more importantly, I used the situation to fine-tune my skills. If layoffs came, I’d be on top of my game and ready for new opportunities. That mindset alone helped me stay calm and in control.”
SpongeBob’s Takeaway:
SpongeBob gasped. “So instead of panicking about losing my job, I can focus on being the best fry cook possible?!”
“Exactly!” I said. “Keep showing up, keep improving, and if the worst happens, you’ll be prepared!”
Patrick scratched his head. “But what if working harder doesn’t work?”
Example 2: Preparing a Plan B Like a Warrior
“Great question, Patrick! At another company, I faced cost-cutting layoffs. Every day, the threat of getting called into HR loomed over us. But instead of spiraling into fear, I used the Mental Health Warrior Creed to stay steady.
I knew that if layoffs hit, I had to be ready to move. So, I started looking at other job opportunities. It wasn’t easy—I had to manage my anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. But because I prepared a Plan B, I took the pressure off myself. I reminded myself: ‘If it happens, I’m ready.’ That alone helped me handle the uncertainty.”
SpongeBob’s Takeaway:
SpongeBob’s eyes widened. “So I should start learning new skills now and maybe even see if the Chum Bucket is hiring, just in case?”
I grinned. “Now you’re thinking like a Warrior, SpongeBob! Explore options, but don’t let fear control you.”
Patrick gasped. “Wait, so I should actually fill out that lifeguard job application I picked up last week?” “Yes, Patrick,” I nodded. “That’s a solid Plan B.”
Example 3: Turning Layoffs Into an Opportunity
“At another job, everyone in my department was laid off when the company outsourced IT services. It was inevitable, and I knew it was coming. But instead of breaking under pressure, I used the Mental Health Warrior Creed to manage my emotions.
I accepted that my job was gone, but I also saw it as a push toward something better. Instead of spiraling, I started looking for new jobs before the layoffs even happened. I stayed in control, aced my interviews, and landed a better role at a company where I could grow.
If I had let fear break me, I never would have found that new opportunity.”
SpongeBob’s Takeaway:
SpongeBob’s jaw dropped. “So…if I lose my job at the Krusty Krab, that might actually be a chance to find something even better?”
“Exactly,” I said. “You ‘Bend NOT Break’—and you’ll find your next adventure.” Patrick wiped a tear. “That was beautiful.”
Spreading the Warrior Mindset
SpongeBob jumped up, his energy returning. “Bruce, this is exactly what we needed! We’re not powerless. We can stay in control, prepare, and even turn this into an opportunity!”
I reached into my bag and pulled out a copy of my book, I Triumphed Over Bipolar, Alcoholism, and Anxiety Disorder by Becoming a Mental Health Warrior. I handed it to SpongeBob. “This book holds the full Warrior Creed—everything you need to face uncertainty with strength. Keep it close, and whenever doubt creeps in, remember: ‘Bend NOT Break.’”
SpongeBob clutched the book, then grabbed his spatula and raised it high. “I won’t let layoffs break me! I will stay in control of my emotions and Bend, NOT Break!”
I chuckled. “Now you’re thinking like a true Mental Health Warrior.”
And just like that, layoffs were no longer something to fear—but a challenge to conquer!
Final Thought:
No matter what life throws your way—job uncertainty, layoffs, or unexpected change—remember the Mental Health Warrior Creed: "Bend, NOT Break."
When you take control of your emotions, prepare for possibilities, and embrace change as an opportunity, you won’t just survive—you’ll triumph!
Bruce Schutter
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