She Strengthens

A Cautionary Tale of Following Your Gut

As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of the importance of listening to my instincts. Last fall, I was thriving as the head of marketing for a global security firm in Seattle. With a recent 20% raise and a fantastic team, I should have been content. However, I felt stagnant, lacking the challenge and motivation I craved.

The Perfect Opportunity?

A recruiter from a prominent firm reached out with a social media management role that seemed tailor-made for me. The position offered the assistance of a graphic design team and a web developer, and the opportunity to grow and take on new projects. But as I walked into the interview, my gut told me something was off.

Red Flags Ignored

The office was small and quiet, with no separate space for breaks or meetings. The CEO seemed desperate to fill the role, which had been open for months. Despite my reservations, I was offered the job on the spot, with a salary 20% higher than my current one. I was tempted by the promise of financial security, but my instincts screamed warning signs.

A Decision I’d Regret

I ignored my gut feeling and took the job, convincing myself that the money and benefits outweighed my concerns. But from day two, I knew I’d made a mistake. The job was a poor fit, with unrealistic expectations and a difficult boss. I dreaded going to work, and my unhappiness took a toll on my well-being.

A Valuable Lesson Learned

Quitting that job was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It taught me that a job must mean more to me than just a paycheck. I need a supportive environment, a sense of purpose, and a manager who believes in me. I want to feel excited to go to work, to collaborate with colleagues, and to grow professionally.

Finding My True North

It’s been two months since I left, and I’m still searching for the right opportunity. It’s scary to start anew, but I’m grateful for the experience. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and prioritize my happiness. Life is too short to settle for a job that doesn’t bring me joy and fulfillment.