Blindsided by a breakup, I changed the course of my career—and my leadership style.
It’s easy to forget the tumult of your twenties. But looking back now, I realize how profoundly my leadership style was shaped by that time.
Early in my career, I was navigating the world of corporate finance while juggling a long-distance relationship. I was on the East Coast, he on the west. After four years and many miles, we decided to make a home together in California.
At the time, I knew my boss was about to offer me the role of assistant controller (a massive promotion!), and I didn’t want him to go through the process only to hand in my resignation. So, I gave him ample warning that I was planning on resigning from the firm to head out west for sunnier days.
I had butterflies in my stomach the weeks leading up to my departure, nervous and excited about all the unknowns. With…