Many years ago I took a job in a completely different industry, but it was still working in video production. I was hired to build a brand new green-screen virtual studio, and create all the operational practices for it as well.
As I walked into the office on my second day of work, I couldn’t help but notice the surprised glances and raised eyebrows from my new colleagues. Was I wearing something wrong? Was my lash liner running down my face? Not at all!
It seemed that showing up on day two was rather unusual in this place, where a couple of people had disappeared / ghosted the company after the first day. I couldn’t help but wonder why.
As I settled into my desk, I struck up a conversation with a fellow employee who had been there a while. They casually mentioned that the 4 people who had the job before me had abruptly left. Apparently, one had even “just stepped out for a smoke break”, and never returned. It was an eerie tale that had left everyone perplexed.
Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to dig deeper into the situation. Over time, I discovered that the reason behind their sudden disappearance was the toxic environment that permeated every corner of this workplace. It was a toxic soup of long hours, unreasonable people who criticized what they didn’t know (and my job then was just that). The unsupportive atmosphere to say the least had driven 4 other people away.
As I delved further into my role, I began to understand why the other employees had quit before “smoke break” guy did. The weight of the toxic culture had become unbearable for them, pushing them to seek greener pastures elsewhere. It was disheartening to realize that this company had lost valuable talent due to its inability to foster a healthy work environment.
Determined to make a positive impact, I resolved to weather the storm and bring about change from within. I sought out like-minded colleagues who shared my vision for a supportive workplace. Together, we started small initiatives to improve communication, foster teamwork, and address concerns openly.
Slowly but steadily, our efforts began to bear fruit. The toxic atmosphere gradually dissipated, replaced by a more inclusive and collaborative environment. As word spread about the positive changes taking place, morale improved, and the turnover rate decreased significantly.
Months passed, and I found myself still taking a lot “on the chin” from senior management (today knowing they actually just wanted my job), looking back at that fateful day when I walked into this job, oblivious to the challenges (aside from the actual work) that lay ahead. It was pure desire for change and to transform the toxic workplace into a thriving and supportive community.
My story exemplifies the importance of resilience and the power of individuals to make a difference. By showing up on that second day, I had unwittingly become a catalyst for some positive change, not only for myself but for those around me. And as I continued to grow and thrive in my role, I couldn’t help but be grateful for the opportunity to turn a challenging situation into a remarkable position.
But the story doesn’t end there….
After 11 months, a finished studio (ahead of schedule and on-budget), and all operational processes were documented and in place.
They ended my contract early, with severance at 4pm on a Monday afternoon.
I refused to let it dampen my spirits. As I walked to the Port Authority that afternoon, my mind was filled with a mix of determination, great disappointment, and uncertainty. Little did I know that the universe had something magical in store for me. I called an ex-coworker, at a company I had worked at for many many years, asking about employment, “even just some freelance work”. That call was my life-line.
That very Friday, I stepped into my old company, a place I had once called home. It was a familiar setting, with memories of camaraderie and shared successes embedded in every corner. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia as I greeted familiar faces and caught up with old colleagues.
The position they offered me may have been freelance, but it was a lifeline that I gratefully grasped. They explained the criteria and expectations, and I couldn’t help but feel a spark of excitement. It was the opportunity I needed—a chance to showcase my gained skills and reignite my passion for the work I loved.
As the days turned into weeks, then years, I found myself in the rhythm of the job, the familiar tasks and challenges. But this time, something was different, everyday was different. The magical universe had intervened, casting a light in the darkness that had clouded my journey.
I discovered a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment in my work. The toxic environment and disappointment of the previous company began to fade away, replaced by a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. My colleagues embraced me with open arms, recognizing my talents and valuing my contributions.
With each passing day, I grew more confident and inspired. The projects I worked on flourished, and the results reflected the dedication and passion that had been reignited within me. And as my freelance (permalance) position evolved, it became evident that this was more than just a temporary arrangement—it was an opportunity for growth and a chance to build something meaningful.
The magic of being back in this familiar yet transformed workplace revealed itself in the connections I formed and the opportunities that unfolded. It was as if the universe had orchestrated this return, guiding me toward a path of resilience and triumph.
Looking back on that uncertain moment when I was dismissed, I realized that it was merely a stepping stone to something greater. The setback had pushed me to explore new horizons, leading me back to a place where my skills and contributions made a difference.
In this enchanting twist of fate, I discovered that sometimes, the most magical moments happen when we least expect them. It was in the embrace of an old employer that I found my light in the darkness, reigniting my passion and reminding me that the universe has a way of leading us back to where we truly belong. And from that day forward, I embarked on a journey filled with renewed purpose, gratitude, and the unwavering belief that no matter the challenges, the magic within us can guide us to extraordinary places.
I have since journeyed on to many more places, and the adventure continues.
Be A Light!
That's News To Me 