After graduation, I returned to my hometown, ready to embark on the next phase of my life. I spent a month at home, reconnecting with my family, grounding myself after the whirlwind of the past few years. It was a peaceful time, but the quiet soon turned into anticipation. I knew it was time to take the next step—starting my career.
I joined AIA Bhd, stepping into a new environment with a mix of excitement and nerves. What made this experience even more special was that I wasn’t doing it alone—I was working alongside my childhood best friend. It felt like a comforting start, a familiar face in an unfamiliar world. But despite having someone close to me, the journey was not as smooth as I had hoped.
The first month was particularly challenging. One of my colleagues made it a point to make my life difficult, constantly criticizing me and undermining my confidence. The pressure became overwhelming, and I found myself questioning if I was cut out for this job. I thought about quitting—there were days when I couldn’t see how I would continue. It felt like I was drowning, struggling to keep my head above water in an environment that seemed toxic.
But then, everything changed. I found an unexpected source of support—a wonderful person who would end up being not just a mentor, but a pillar of strength in my life. My boss, who saw me struggling, reached out. He comforted me when I was at my lowest, offering guidance and a listening ear. He understood the challenges I was facing, and instead of adding to the pressure, he helped me find ways to navigate through it. His kindness, patience, and understanding made all the difference.
For the first time, I didn’t feel alone in the workplace. My boss’s encouragement gave me the strength to push through the difficult moments. Even though I still carried the weight of my anxiety (though I didn’t fully understand it at the time), I felt a sense of relief knowing I had someone to turn to. Whenever I felt down or overwhelmed, I could share my concerns with him, and his words of motivation kept me going.
Gradually, I began to find my rhythm. The anxiety didn’t vanish, but it became easier to manage, and I was able to focus on my work with a sense of purpose. I was no longer just surviving—I was thriving. The toxic atmosphere that had once made me question my abilities was replaced with a sense of belonging and support.
I owe a lot of my growth during this time to my boss. He didn’t just teach me how to navigate the workplace—he showed me the power of kindness, mentorship, and understanding. His support helped me become a better version of myself, both in my career and personally. And despite the struggles I faced, I was able to look forward to each day with a sense of hope and gratitude.
Looking back, I realize how much this chapter shaped me. It wasn’t just about starting a new job—it was about discovering my own resilience and the power of finding the right support when you need it most. Even though I still carried the symptoms of anxiety, I was no longer letting them define me. Thanks to the guidance and encouragement of my boss, I was able to push through the challenges and find joy in my work once again.
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