The Price of Staying: When a Job Costs More Than It Pays

The Price of Staying: When a Job Costs More Than It Pays

I know firsthand how staying in a toxic environment can quietly erode your health. I stayed far longer than I should have—telling myself I could handle it, that things might get better, and fearing that walking away would mean facing the same dysfunction somewhere else.

But while I stayed, I slowly began to break down. I experienced depression, anxiety, headaches—and eventually, cancer. My body was trying to tell me what I had been ignoring. It wasn’t until my cancer diagnosis that the truth finally hit me: I couldn’t go back.

My spouse looked me in the eyes and said, “We’ll figure it all out. You’re more important to me than a paycheck.” With his love and support, I made the hardest—and most freeing—decision of my life. I walked away. I left behind a well-paid, six-figure leadership role. And I’ve spent the past few months healing.

What I’ve learned in just three months since leaving that job has changed everything.

Many companies are changing. During interviews, I chose to be honest about why I left. I know we’re taught not to speak poorly of previous employers, but I believe we have to advocate for the environments we want to work in. I shared that I was looking for workplaces that value psychological safety, teamwork, and trust.

And the result? I’ve received three amazing job offers—each one for a leadership role in a brand-new center, where I would get to help shape the team from day one.

I share this not to boast, but to remind you: Trust your journey. Do your part. Put in the work. The rest will fall into place. It won’t always feel like it’s working—but I promise, you’ll find your way. Be good, do good, and above all else, know this:

You are enough.

With gratitude and hope,
Sandra