The Day I Almost Quit

The following account was told to me by a friend - someone who became so distressed by the current job market that he had to do something different. I'm here to tell his story.

I almost quit my job last year. Not because I was weak — but because I was tired of being strong.

I was managing three high-stakes audits, answering to regulators, mentoring a junior team, and dealing with family health issues.

One night, I sat alone in the parking garage. Car running. Hands shaking. I wasn’t burned out — I was invisible.

And that’s when I realized something: Leadership without support is just survival.

I changed everything. I spoke up. I asked for help. I told the truth. And I promised myself:

“I’ll never lead from silence again. And I’ll never let anyone on my team feel unseen.”

Since then, I’ve taught leaders how to listen better. I’ve trained auditors to show vulnerability. I’ve empowered my teams to challenge me.

That’s what leadership is — not pretending to be bulletproof, but being brave enough to show the dents.

Have you ever hit that moment?

I’d love to hear your story. Share it. Someone out there needs it today.

#Leadership #AuthenticLeadership #OffTheLeash #WorkCulture #MentalHealthAtWork #RiskManagement #CareerGrowth #ComplianceMatters