3 things I’ve learned about myself and why I quit my 9-6

I would like to start by asking for grace, for the past few years, I have been exclusively writing professional emails, I haven’t written anything personal or creative in eons. Let’s get right into it!

I quit my job. I resigned from my position as the HR Manager at a mental health practice. I learned so much in this position and met a lot of wonderful people, some I believe will be lifelong friends and connections. I worked with an intelligent group of black professionals in all stages of their careers and I was inspired in many ways. 

I joined the team during its startup phase, so there were many hiccups and learning lessons in my 3 year journey. I re-discovered important things about myself that solidified what I already knew but needed to experience to follow through. Here are three things I learned about myself and why I can not be an employee until the retirement age of 67.

I like choosing the people I am surrounded by

Coworkers have got to be the most frustrating elements of being an employee. The chances of selecting a team where everyone will be able to get along in perfect harmony are slim to none. Being involved with people who negatively affect my mood consistently was hindering my mental and physical health. I worked with a manager who I let stress me out, this resulted in gaining about 20 pounds. I would take a walk for a break and end up buying snacks, or leave work thinking I need ice cream. They spoke down to me as if I were stupid, but they were like this with a lot of employees, I hated it.

I need the freedom to surround myself with individuals who are committed to maintaining a healthy work environment. I know I will have to interact with difficult people throughout life, but freeing myself from being tied to them nine hours, five days a week will surely dismantle my health for sure.

I am easily affected by the stressors of jobs

During Christmas of 2022, I was stressed out, on Christmas Eve I was dreaming about work and was so anxious. My heart is racing thinking about it. There is no way I can ever put myself in this situation again, especially if it isn’t for the betterment of my goals and family. I was risking my health for the goals and dreams the owners were working towards. I love the owners and consider them friends but my life is not worth their goals. 

Stress I can avoid has no place in my life, and I encourage you to work hard to remove stress from your life. Stress is lethal and I am begging you to take care of yourself above all so you will be healthy mentally and physically to take care of others and accomplish your goals.

I need to work hard for myself

Working hard for a company to accomplish the owners’ goals comes easy to me, however, it doesn’t sit right with my spirit. Now, I understand that many careers allow people to work for the greater good, fulfilling their passions and life mission. However, no job I’ve ever worked has led me to things I dreamed of. I was on the proverbial hamster wheel. 

Honestly, if I put in the same amount of work and dedication towards my own goals, that I put in the last three years, I would have checked off so many of my to-do list entries. I am grateful for the opportunity, growth, and the ‘never again’ moments but I am determined to never put myself in circumstances I felt trapped in.

It is so easy to show up for other people and this next chapter in my life will require me to show up for myself, to work hard for myself, and to create the life and environment I can thrive in. 

Join me on this journey as I challenge myself to be who I am meant to be.