Last year, I received an unexpected email informing me that my position had ended. There was no meeting and no explanation—just a quiet message sitting in my inbox. Strangely, my access to company platforms remained active, making everything feel unchanged. Unsure of how to respond, I continued participating in small ways. I joined virtual meetings and stayed involved in the familiar routine.

As the days went by, I realized I wasn’t doing this out of denial. I stayed engaged because I genuinely cared about the work and the people, and I needed time to understand the situation. Each meeting reminded me of the abilities I had developed over the years. Gradually, I began to recognize my own value with greater clarity.

One afternoon, a message arrived from the CEO asking why I was still active. Instead of feeling anxious, I chose to be honest and explained the situation. To my surprise, the CEO appreciated my professionalism and openness. We discussed communication, respect, and the importance of providing people with clear information. That conversation became a meaningful moment for both of us.

In the end, I didn’t return to the role, but I left with confidence and a sense of closure. I learned that supporting yourself matters more than any title. The experience taught me to trust my journey, even when it feels uncertain. Not long after, I found a new opportunity where my presence was truly valued. Now I move forward knowing that every ending brings a lesson to guide the next beginning.