My "TitTsOUT Moment"—Finding Courage, Confidence, and Celebrating the Outcome

This story is a reflection of my journey to finding the courage and confidence to make a significant life change—my "Tits Out Moment." It embodies how I recognized the need to leave a toxic job situation and ultimately celebrate the rewarding outcome of that decision.

I found myself at a tricky crossroads in my career, where my experience led me to a marketing manager role at an ad agency. However, my naivete kept me from recognizing the warning signs of a toxic workplace, particularly with a supervisor whose leadership style seemed to erode my confidence rather than offer me the opportunity to grow.

Amidst this environment, I encountered a remarkable leader who radiated positivity and strength. This individual possessed a unique ability to uplift everyone around them and exuded generosity in sharing knowledge and authority. They focused on building people up and encouraged me to do the same.

At that stage in my career, I was eager yet uncertain. Eager to prove myself, but also a self-proclaimed people pleaser—more likely to shrink in tough moments than to assert myself. This mentor quickly recognized my struggle and issued a challenge: to work on my confidence—not in a superficial way, but genuinely. They urged me to own my ideas, acknowledge my mistakes, and celebrate my achievements, both big and small.

As I worked with this leader, it became clear that my job was costing me much more than a paycheck could replace; I was drained mentally, emotionally, and physically. Yet I stayed, caught in the cycle of hoping things would improve if I just tried harder. Spoiler alert: they didn’t.

Then a turning point arrived. A colleague witnessed the unprofessional treatment I endured and made the courageous choice to speak up. In that moment, I realized I didn’t need permission to stand up for myself. It was time to stop making myself small. I began reaching out in my network, saying yes to new opportunities, and within weeks, I had landed my dream job.

I believe in signs from the universe, and this felt like the clearest sign of all: standing tall, owning my worth, and taking courageous action was the right move. My departure from that unhealthy environment triggered changes that prevented others from experiencing similar mistreatment. Now, a year into my new role, I’ve thrived and even earned a promotion—growth that I never would have achieved if I had waited for change to happen instead of choosing to create it myself.

Looking back on that time, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For the challenges faced, the hard lessons learned, and the encouragement I received from a brilliant mentor. Their guidance not only helped me discover my confidence but also instilled the courage to embrace it fully. That realization has made all the difference in my journey, and today, I celebrate the outcome of that pivotal decision.