In 2018, I entered my fifth decade. It was an uncertain time; my struggles professionally got the best of me because of my career goals. I trusted more than I questioned. By early May 2018, anxiety and betrayal got the best of me, so; I walked away from my employer for mental recovery. It was a strange time, and I questioned my value in the world.

In 2019, I hoped things would improve. I took on a role with a company that looked promising, but it cranked my anxiety to critical mass. The months following proved disastrous due to lousy employment choices. Things looked promising as I went to work for someone I knew from a previous contract.

In 2020, situations at work became stressful. The company president laid down unrealistic expectations, which triggered my anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I made it a point to stick through the tough time when I received a sudden lay-off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I became one of 20 million unemployed people; I live in Nevada, the hardest-hit state.

It’s August, and I am turning 52 years old this month. I hoped things would get more comfortable as I get older, but no, not so much. However, I continue to persevere and survive.