Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in the working world. Some jobs shaped me, some challenged me, and others simply helped me get from one chapter of life to the next. But each one has played a part in the journey—and I’ve learned a lot along the way.

The role that still stands out as my favourite was the one I had for 14 years. I worked as a PA for a property company, and I absolutely loved it. The work suited me perfectly—I enjoyed being organised, staying on top of things, and supporting the team. Even more importantly, I made real friendships during that time. It was the kind of job where you felt part of something and looked forward to going in each day.

Unfortunately, like many good things, it came to an end. I was made redundant, and that hit hard. After being in one place for so long, it felt like the ground had been pulled from under me. I suddenly found myself in a sea of temporary jobs—none of them particularly fulfilling. They helped pay the bills, but that spark I’d once felt was missing.

Eventually, I landed a role in the NHS. I stayed there for three years, and although it seemed like a secure, meaningful job on paper, the reality was very different. It was high-pressure, emotionally draining, and there was very little support. Over time, the stress started to impact my health. I began to experience anxiety and panic attacks—something I had never dealt with before. I tried to push through, but my body and mind were telling me it was too much. In the end, I made the difficult but necessary decision to leave for the sake of my wellbeing.

That decision wasn’t easy, but it was right.

Now, I’m in a new role—working part-time in reception. It’s a much quieter environment, and most importantly, it’s not stressful. For the first time in a long while, I feel like I can breathe. I’m not constantly on edge or overwhelmed, and that has made such a difference to my mental health. It may not be as fast-paced or high-profile as some of my past jobs, but it gives me balance, and right now, that’s exactly what I need.

Sometimes life takes you in directions you never expected. The job that once defined you might disappear. The new one might not be what you hoped. But with time, patience, and a bit of courage, things do settle—and even improve.

I’m still figuring things out, but I’m grateful to be in a better place. And who knows what’s next? For now, I’m just taking it one step at a time—and that feels like progress.