Today was a tough day for me as I was laid off from my job at a toxic company where I had been working in an administrative role. I had a feeling it was coming, especially after surviving a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) just a few months ago. My boss had been harassing me for the last 18 months, and I was constantly under pressure with poorly documented processes and high stakes for mistakes. Despite my efforts to follow the company manual and adapt to the chaotic environment, it felt like I was set up to fail. I’ve been struggling with my career for years now. I graduated from college with a degree I regret, and I never had the chance to intern or network effectively. This has led to a series of low-paying, unfulfilling jobs that have done nothing but drain my energy and self-worth. I’ve been stuck in low-to-middle five-figure salaries, and with my health declining due to back and hip problems, it’s been increasingly difficult to manage a traditional office job. I’m over 35 now, and it’s disheartening to see my classmates thriving in their careers while I feel like I’m at a standstill, constantly battling ageism and a lack of experience. I’ve never worked for a company that I truly wanted to be a part of, and I often feel like a failure compared to my peers who are advancing in their careers and living fulfilling lives. This layoff has forced me to confront my situation more than ever. I feel isolated, ashamed, and exhausted by the relentless cycle of working jobs that leave me feeling worthless. I don’t have anyone in my life who understands what I’m going through, and it’s hard to see a way forward. I’m just venting, but I hope to find some connection with others who might relate to my struggles.