To my fellow international civil servants navigating uncertainty of UN80 reforms, funding cuts, and job insecurity, I see you.
I’ve been there too, both as a UN professional and as a coach.
When your world is shaken by job loss, restructuring, or sheer burnout, every day can feel like a battle.
And in those moments, one powerful mindset shift has helped me and many of my clients move forward:
The “Passengers on the Bus” Metaphor.
Imagine this:
Your life is a bus. You are the driver.
But the bus isn’t empty; it’s full of passengers.
Some are calm. Others are noisy — fear, grief, anger, self-doubt.
They shout things like:
- “You’re not good enough.”
- “You’ll never find another opportunity.”
- “Your skillset is only useful in a multilateral setting.”
You don’t need to argue with them or kick them off the bus. (You can’t.)
Just notice them. Acknowledge them. But don’t give them the wheel.
You’re still driving.
Even if you’re unsure of the destination today, you’re moving forward.
Try this:
At the end of each day, write down who showed up on your bus. Were there any patterns? Shifts? Even a tiny moment of peace or self-kindness counts.
Bonus: This guided meditation has helped many ground themselves in this metaphor –
To those feeling lost or discouraged: You’re not alone. The road ahead may feel uncertain, but you’re still the driver.