How I became me (Part 4)

College was over, and it was time to step into the "real world." The safety net of academia was gone, replaced with the prospect of a 9-to-5 grind. I managed to snag a position at a multinational company - a dream come true, mixed with a healthy dose of anxiety.

Gone were the days of flexible schedules and afternoon naps. Suddenly, I was bound to the rhythm of the corporate clock. Waking up before the sun rose, navigating rush hour traffic, and sitting through endless meetings became my new normal. The first few weeks were a blur of new faces, unfamiliar jargon, and the overwhelming urge to hit the snooze button.

But amidst the challenges, there were also moments of excitement. Receiving my first paycheck felt like a rite of passage into adulthood. It was a tangible reminder that I was contributing, earning my own way in the world. Though, I quickly learned that adulting also meant budgeting and paying bills. Who knew there was so much math involved in being a grown-up?

One of the perks of working for a global company was the opportunity for business travel. While it was thrilling to visit new cities and experience different cultures, my rusty French skills often left me feeling like a fish out of water.

I'll never forget my first trip to the Lyon office. Armed with a hastily memorized phrasebook and a whole lot of nervous energy. It was a humbling experience, but it also taught me the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing new challenges.

Looking back, those early years in the corporate world were a rollercoaster. I faced setbacks and celebrated victories, learned valuable lessons, and even managed to improve my French along the way. It was a time of tremendous growth, both personally and professionally, as I navigated the complexities of adulthood and carved out my own path in the world.

MB