Here?

Dec 21, 2025
2 min read

I started a very temporary job (I’ll be soon unemployed as it’s a cover contract) and began working after months of rejections. It felt great to have achieved something, even if it wasn’t what I had planned to do.

I was doing my tasks, in public as is the nature of the role. And then I saw someone, and realised I knew them from a couple of years ago. On the spot, I engaged with them, asking them how things were since we last spoke and what they were up to. They then asked me what I was doing, and I replied working. They then turned, made a face, and said, “working here?”.

I was immediately reminded of where I was, what I was doing, and how it differed to what this person had expected me to have done since we last spoke. I explained to them about the job market and how hard it was to find something etc.

The comment and interaction reminded me of not only how I view myself and set expectations, but how those who around me do the same. This person and I haven’t met for years and yet they were surprised to see me in a job they didn’t expect. In some ways, I did feel embarrassed. And that in itself is horrible to feel and admit because no job should be viewed as any “less” than another. I went to university but I am doing a job unrelated to my degree. It doesn’t mean that I am somehow above it.

I think what also struck me is not only my employment situation but the mental burden of it all. The last few months have been unbelievably tough and landing this very temporary job has made me feel alive again. It has given me a structure, a purpose, and people to talk to daily, the things I have craved for so long. And so when speaking to this person, I realised that what I saw as an opportunity, a lifeline to gaining permanent employment somewhere, they saw as a waste of time. And maybe the version of me they knew from years ago would have agreed. But my time searching has allowed me to be grateful for whatever I can do because it is certainly miles better from sitting at home and wishing I had other things to do rather than apply for jobs.

The point is, right now is not necessarily forever. The person I met has no idea of what my life has been like since we last met. The obstacles I have overcome, the challenges I still face daily. What I have now is a renewed sense of belief in my abilities, in being of use, and an employable individual.

So yes. I am working here. And I’m so proud of myself for getting where I am because only I know the struggles of my journey.