Separating my job/employer from my identity and sense of self-worth did wonders for my mental health, and for my career. (Thread 1/)

I joined Uber (a startup at the time) when I was 23. The job consumed me entirely. My job was my purpose in life and I prioritized it over all else. My team was my family. I took everything negative said about the company personally. (2)

The negative news spiral and drama around Uber was so personally devastating to me that it impacted my mental health and I realized I had to leave. In the process of leaving, I discovered the uncomfortable truth that I was just another employee. (3)

I never want my work to feel like “just a job” as I believe that mentality leads to mediocrity. Could I feel a deep sense of purpose in my work without intertwining my identity with my job? It feels like a paradox. (4)

My solution was to take the time to define my personal mission, values and purpose independent of my employer. If my own mission aligned with my employer’s then we are off to the races! If they don’t align, then it’s not too devastating to part ways. (5)

Each job, employer, initiative, relationship, success, failure contributes to the body of work that is your career, not the other way around. Your current employer is just one facet. (6-End)