Today I reflected on my nearly five years at my current job, and I realized how much it has changed me. I started out believing the workplace would be a peaceful environment filled with cooperation and support. Instead, I have encountered more drama and backstabbing than I ever did in high school or college. Coworkers have been rude, forced me to do their work, and I’ve dealt with more than my fair share of backhanded comments. For instance, I was tasked with training new employees without any educational materials, so I took the initiative to create a manual. However, my boss dismissed it as illegitimate and refused to get it approved, despite later asking for a copy to learn my job herself. I've faced lies and manipulations from coworkers, been yelled at, and received no support from management. While management has recently become nicer to me, I can’t shake the feeling that I’ve lost a part of myself in this toxic environment. I’ve been applying for new jobs but have faced rejection after rejection. I’m trying to find a way out, but it’s been incredibly discouraging. My friends have even noticed that I seem more short-fused lately. I just want to regain my sense of innocence and peace.