It ended amicably, with no resentment and no hard feelings, just factors outside our control. While I had so much more to give and didn’t get to see ideas through, I’m deeply grateful for the time we shared.

Like any long relationship, I grew a lot over the ten years I was with them. There were times I was in full flow: creating lasting relationships, adding value to big projects, and improving the ways we worked. And there were positions that weren’t quite the right fit, but where I learned the most. In many ways I grew up during my time there. Looking back, I can clearly see the challenges that shaped me and the mentors who helped me through them. Every role felt like it led naturally to my most recent where I felt I was thriving.

My role as consultant for onboarding was a culmination of everything that came before. It was my dream area of work, and I often couldn’t believe my luck in finding a full-time position around it. I had big dreams about enhancing leaders’ and employees’ experiences in ways that were thoughtful, effective, and sustainable. Reflecting on my roles since I was a 15 year old cashier, one thread remains constant: I feel most fulfilled when I’m helping others do their work better and feel better doing it.

It’s tempting to compare this experience to a partner waking up and deciding they don’t love you anymore. As I process my new reality, I remind myself that a relationship ending doesn’t mean it wasn’t real or meaningful. I made a positive impact in processes and programs, but most importantly, with the people I supported and collaborated with. My time had value. I’m leaving enriched, matured, and well prepared for whatever comes next.

If this resonates with you, I’d love to chat! Send me a message on LinkedIn or at maianna1986@gmail.com.