Member-only story
Finding happiness at work: My journey from small businesses to corporations and beyond.
Lesson learned!
I have always chosen to work for small family businesses, although I didn’t understand the reason behind this choice initially. It took me years to realize and understand that I preferred a relaxed working system, and still do. A system that concentrates more on human well-being to foster creativity and efficiency.
However, a drawback I encountered with small businesses was the lack of opportunities for professional growth. As a result, every 2–3 years, I was looking for another position in another family business. My main field of expertise lies in advertising, customer service, and administration. The last is my strongest one. So, I used to handle every aspect of running the company, from the smallest to the biggest detail, in practical matters.
Almost two years ago, during a very stressful period, I decided to work for a large corporate company that offered various benefits. Such as a good salary, private insurance, pension plan (after 5 years), Easter & Christmas money and gifts, leaves, and annual bonus. The interesting thing is this job found me and not the other way around. I felt incredibly lucky when I signed my contract for the trial period. Little did I know…
It took me only a week to realize what I had already known but hadn’t paid attention to — I was born to be a freelancer. And so, the countdown to my resignation began. Thanks to the trial period, I eagerly awaited the date!
During my time in the corporate job
- I had one goal. The paycheck.
- I spent 3 hours each day commuting to and from work, with 20% of my salary going on gas expenses.
- For the first time, I had to use a time card, which I struggled to adapt to. In fact, in the first few days, I received messages like “You forgot to use your card”. “What time did you arrive?” “What time did you leave?” I could have lied, but I didn’t.
- I spent eight hours each day at work, but the actual time devoted to constructive and creative tasks amounted to only two hours. Furthermore, I couldn’t leave earlier because I had to complete those hours to receive my full salary…
