I have to be honest with you - my time as a news director was a real rollercoaster ride and it's not an experience I wish to repeat. From the throes of the Covid-19 pandemic to the intense scrutiny to the departure of one of my favorite bosses, it felt like everything was working against me.

I held onto that role for dear life, jumping through hoop after hoop, until I finally had to ask myself - at what cost? I was completely exhausted, both physically and mentally. I finally realized that no job is worth sacrificing your overall well-being. Leaving that position wasn't an easy decision, but it was the best thing I could have done for myself.

Dream jobs aren't always what they're cracked up to be, and sometimes, we have to be willing to walk away in order to prioritize our own health and happiness.

The truth is, I had invested so much of my identity in that role that it took me a while to realize how much it was draining me. The constant pressure, shrinking resources, unrealistic expectations, and relentless criticism had slowly chipped away at my mental health.

Was I a perfect leader? Certainly not; I'm only human after all. Yet, it's a known fact that Black women are often not afforded the same margin for error as their non-Black peers. Despite everything, I was about to take on a new role when I was thrown another curveball, and I knew something had to change.

Making the leap and quitting my job was terrifying. I worried about financial stability, career progression, and what others would think. But the relief I felt after handing in my resignation was indescribable. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

Since then, I've learned that success isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder or achieving a specific title.

• It's about finding fulfillment, maintaining work-life harmony, and being true to yourself.

• I've discovered new passions and opportunities I never would have explored if I had stayed in that so-called dream job.

• I now prioritize experiences over possessions, relationships over status, and personal growth over societal expectations. 

• I've found myself more resilient in the face of setbacks and more innovative in my problem-solving.

• My network has expanded beyond my initial industry, introducing me to diverse viewpoints and opportunities.

This journey hasn't been without challenges. There have been moments of self-doubt and financial uncertainty. But each obstacle has ultimately reinforced my decision to prioritize authenticity and personal satisfaction over conventional notions of success.

If you're finding yourself in a similar situation, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here without judgment to help you take that first step towards a better path. Don't let fear or pride hold you back from seeking help. Together, we can explore options and find solutions that work for you. Your well-being matters, and there's no shame in asking for support when you need it most.

Renee

This month (wow, it's September) I am launching a women's group coaching program! It is designed for women who are in search of both coaching and community. Career Collective aims to bring together women with shared challenges or goals, fostering mutual understanding and a sense of belonging. For more information, please respond to this email or visit my website to complete the contact form expressing your interest in group coaching, and I will get back to you.