For 13 years, I worked in a job that wasn’t the right fit for me. Today, I’m grateful for it.
I ignored red flags early on, started as an independent contractor after one interview, and spent years trying to prove myself under constant criticism. I thought the problem was me.
Eventually I realized I wasn’t failing. I was trying to succeed in a workplace whose values didn’t match mine.
That changed everything.
I resigned with three months’ notice, documented my work, and trained others so I could leave with integrity.
In my next role, my work was valued. I went from entry level to second in command in five years.
Lesson: finding a values match is intentional. No one knows what you need better than you do. Don’t stay where you’re only tolerated.
If you're questioning whether your workplace is the right fit, you're in the right place.