[hkmurakami]

What was your reaction to this offer, if I may ask?

Did you think it was fair? Did you think you were ripped off? Angry? Sad? Depressed?

I've left a few jobs but always on my own accord, so I'd appreciate having a glimpse of the psyche in going through an involuntary departure.

[mkenyon]

It's a generous payout. The cuts seem indiscriminate when I look at all the talented people being cut. I imagine that it is hard to surgically remove 20% of your workforce.

Right now, I'm torn between looking for work immediately and asking for a delayed start, or going on vacation now and looking for work when I get back.

All I know is that Mars Bar (the local bar) will be busy tonight.

[hkmurakami]

I took a few months after my last resignation and it allowed me to really think clearly without the daily distractions of corporate life. It really let me reexamine my priorities and how I want to live going forward, so if you're (a) comfortable financially (I had few if any financial obligations) and (b) are confident in your ability to find a good role in the future, I can vouch for the mental benefits of just taking it easy for a few months, even if you don't do anything "special".

Oh, and thanks for sharing your perspective with us!

[pault]

I'm not sure what 3+ months' salary is for you, but I was able to live for a year in NW Thailand for $20k. I wouldn't be the person I am today had I not done that.

[marvin]

As an aside, this is why the US should have longer mandatory holiday. Taking a vacation would be the last thing on my mind if I was laid off, but our country has 5 weeks of semi-paid holidays a year.

Good luck with your decision, I'm sure you'll land on your feet.

[ttrreeww]

Look for work immediately. Negotiate a delay start.