This past year has been very different from what I expected. If you’ve been following my journey on social media, you know I’ve faced many changes—personally, professionally, and emotionally.
For a long time, I was unemployed. Eventually, I found part-time work, but I was still searching for full-time stability. After what felt like endless applications and interviews, I finally landed a full-time job. Unfortunately, it turned out to be one of the most difficult experiences of my life.
What I thought would be a step forward ended up damaging my confidence, my sense of self, and even my mental health. The environment was toxic, and it ended on very bad terms. I left impulsively, but in truth, I felt I had no choice.
After that, I spent several weeks unemployed again, searching tirelessly for work. I eventually found a receptionist role that I truly enjoyed. The pay was low and there were no benefits, but the positive environment helped me begin healing. That experience reminded me how much the right workplace can affect your well-being.
Soon after, I received multiple job offers and accepted a corporate position. While the role is challenging and different from what I’ve done in the past, it has been a much better fit. It’s not customer-facing, and the professional environment has given me space to recover and rebuild.
Healing from Workplace Trauma
I never imagined that a workplace could leave such lasting scars. The bullying, lack of support, and unprofessional behavior I experienced in my previous role were deeply damaging. It took a toll not only on me, but also on those who cared about me. My family and friends saw how much I was struggling and encouraged me to walk away.
Even now, I’m still healing. Trauma doesn’t disappear overnight. I’ve had to forgive—not only the people who treated me poorly, but also myself. I’ll admit, I wasn’t perfect either. Gossiping, complaining about leadership, and being unprofessional at times are things I’ve had to acknowledge and grow from. But nothing excuses the toxic behaviors I endured.
This journey has taught me an important lesson: no job should destroy your health, character, or dignity. Professional environments should foster respect, fairness, and growth. If you ever find yourself in a workplace that doesn’t value those things, know that you deserve better.
Learning New Boundaries
At my new job, I’ve approached things differently. I keep my conversations professional and light, avoiding oversharing. I’ve learned that sometimes, less is more when it comes to workplace interactions.
Most importantly, I no longer allow work to define me. I clock in, do my best, and then go home. Outside of work, I focus on what makes me happy—working out, playing video games, writing for this blog, and spending time with loved ones. Work is part of life, but it is not my whole life.
Moving Forward with Gratitude
While it’s painful to look back, I’m choosing to move forward. I forgive those who treated me unfairly, even if they never acknowledge what they did. I hope they find the healing and growth they need, just as I’m working on mine.
To my readers—thank you. Your support, encouragement, and kindness mean the world to me. Blogging has been such a grounding outlet during this difficult season, and I’m grateful to continue sharing my journey with you.
This year has been heavy with lessons, but also filled with growth. I may be in my late twenties and still learning what professionalism truly looks like, but I’d rather learn late than never. And now, I move forward—with hope, with boundaries, and with gratitude.
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Whatever life takes you, enjoy your life. Think positive, and be positive.
–Always look to the rising sky
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