what I have learned

Nothing in this post should be news to anyone - but maybe, like me, it is time for a reminder.

What I have learned over the past few months in Indiana:

I have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, and work in an environment that is not hostile.

It is not exceptional to expect to do the job I was hired to do.

I have the right to have responsible feedback from my manager if they accuse me of being substandard.

I do NOT have to accept an abusive environment/situation in order to have the illusion of security in my life (like a steady paycheck).

I have the right to walk away if a situation is not what I was told it would be, or if I feel I am in a toxic/abusive situation. And I do not have to explain myself.

Joy is a magnet. When I allow myself to be joyful, regardless of the situation, I do draw to me great things and people.

I am not my circumstances. Regardless of how some choose to see/treat me, I know my worth, and that I am a loving, joyful person.

I choose how I react to situations and people. Just because they are miserable and insecure, doesn't mean that I have to be (that one can be hard).

I am more than the work that I do. However, I know that I am someone who puts who I am into what I do - therefore, it is very important for me to choose a supportive, nurturing environment that celebrates and uses my strengths rather than being threatened by them.

I read somewhere recently that people who own their lives view challenges like athletes view resistance training - it all makes you stronger, and it feels good to have to ramp it up.

In other words, I do not have to settle - and deserve all that makes me happy, fulfilled, and more.

Bring it on. I am a joy magnet.