And what do YOU do?

When I first lost my job, I absolutely dreaded that question. I stumbled over my words as I attempted to explain that yes, I got fired, but no, not in the traditional sense of the word. (I didn't get any warnings, I did NOT suck at my job, etc.) And then I'd ramble on about how I'm freelancing for different mags, blogging and just trying to figure out what will make me truly happy, all the while breaking a sweat, trying to convince the other person that REALLY, I'm FINE! I can't even imagine how insecure I came across.

I've now learned that sometimes less really is more. When someone asks me what I do, I keep it short. I don't try to explain myself. I keep a smile on my face. I'm enthusiastic about my blog, the future and current job opportunities. And if I'm really being pressed for more info about exactly why I got fired, I just make a joke or brush it off by saying, "Well, I did work for a tabloid magazine. I'm still trying to figure it out myself!" So yeah, I've got my little spiel down and it works most of the time.

The other night I met a really friendly girl at a party who seemed genuinely interested in my story and learning more about the industry I work in. So I kept talking and talking, and I found myself feeling the need to explain myself and just what exactly it is I do all day long. I didn't even finish this sentence: Yeah, so the way freelancing works is...when she chimed in: "If I freelanced, I'd spend all my time at the gym!" Ouuuch. Ok, so I know she totally didn't intend to imply that I don't do jack shit all day, but it stung a little. I guess I'm just sensitive to the fact that most people don't realize that I really am busting my ass, even if the work I'm doing isn't always paying the bills. Sigh. 

What about you guys: Have you ever felt insecure or uncomfortable when someone asked about your profession? How did you deal?