Dear past bosses

I’ve been thinking about all of you lately.

Some of you were kind, some of you were not. Some taught me what to do, others taught me exactly what not to do. All of you, in one way or another, shaped me—and for that, I’m grateful.

To the Jewlery store manager who told me, “Do it however you want,” and then critiqued the way I did it: I learned early that unclear expectations can make people feel small, even when they’re doing their best. I carry that lesson into every piece of feedback I give my own team now. I try to be clear, respectful, and fair because I know how it feels to be on the other side of that conversation—confused and hurt.

To the days I spent at Stewart’s, washing dishes with tears quietly rolling down my face—going from working in a cute and girly jewelry store to scrubbing in the back room—I want to say thank you. That version of me was humbling and strong. She didn’t give up. She still showed up.

To the job that let me go after I tried to speak up for myself, I remember how devastated I felt. I thought doing the right thing would protect me, but instead it felt like I was punished for having a voice. Looking back now, I see that moment for what it really was: a push. It shoved me out of something that didn’t value me and eventually nudged me closer to where I belonged.

To the veterinary office that said I wasn’t catching on fast enough: I get it now. Not everything is going to be my thing. But I also know that if someone had slowed down and really tried to teach me, I probably would’ve nailed it. That’s why when someone on my team struggles now, I don’t jump to judgment. I remember that slow learning doesn’t equal lazy.

Veterinary Hospital receptionist 2017

To every job where I clashed with managers—where I got labeled as “difficult” when really I was just outspoken, passionate, or asking for respect—I understand now that I wasn’t meant to stay in the role of employee forever. I was meant to lead. I just needed to get through all of you first.

And now, I’m here...

Running a business of my own. Building something from scratch. Employing other women. Making my own rules and choosing to do it differently.

I don’t say this from a place of bitterness. I say it from a place of reflection and pride. You were part of my story, but you aren’t the whole story. Every job, every unfair moment, every hurtful comment... all of it lit the fire that led me here.

So thank you, sincerely. You pushed me onto a path that was always mine