The first time I heard, “Good morning, men!” echo off the beige cubicle walls, I felt invisible, a ghost in a room full of voices. Fresh out of grad school and just one of two professional women in the office, I was convinced someone would soon discover the imposter I believed myself to be: a farm girl, unversed in technical jargon, pretending at professionalism. I knew the morning greeting was a matter of habit, not malice. Each day, I replied, sometimes timidly, sometimes with a wry smile, wondering when I would truly feel I belonged.
I remember my first lunch with the team, sitting quietly and listening to stories about the “old days,” still unsure of my place. But gradually, I learned the nicknames, the inside jokes, and the rhythm of conversation. Slowly, I began to feel less like an outsider and more like a thread in the fabric of the office.
A decade later, it’s not only the projects or deadlines I remember, but the faces, the laughter, and above all, the lessons that shaped me.
Mentors Who Made a Mark
I’ve been fortunate to know incredible mentors and colleagues, each leaving an indelible mark on my life. While there are too many to count, a few stand out.
One mentor had vibrant white hair, a tall, stocky frame, and a booming laugh that filled any room. He seemed to know something about everything, and a quick question could turn into a story about baling hay or bowhunting. Kind and generous, he once gave me a Christmas tree we still use and delivered a bucket of shucked hickory nuts to my parents’ house. He taught me the importance of being well-rounded and thoughtful.
My next mentor was quieter and more athletic, sometimes inviting me on lunchtime runs. When I traveled somewhere for vacation, he would pull out a full atlas book to know where I went and how I got there. Humble and never seeking credit, he gave me the freedom to shape my own career. When I had my first child, he sent me a book of Shel Silverstein poems: a small gesture that meant a lot. From him, I learned the power of consideration and quiet strength, especially during difficult times.
My current mentor is eclectic and curious, always ready for a conversation about travel, music, or food. He and his wife hosted annual casino nights for the team, opening their beautiful home for games and laughter. He supported me through my second parental leave, making sure I felt secure both at work and at home. Above all, he has shown me the value of technical expertise and the importance of asking questions until you truly understand.
Remarkably, as each manager neared retirement, I was invited to help choose my next: a gesture that showed trust and confidence in my growth. Now, at another crossroads, I reflect with gratitude on the lessons each mentor has given me and how their trust has shaped my path.
Influences Beyond the Office
Some of my most valuable mentors didn’t even work at my company. Early on, I admired an independent consultant whose work embodied the values I aspired to. Five years in, I finally had the chance to collaborate with him as he neared retirement and needed someone to take over his projects.
He taught me not just technical expertise, but also patience, generosity, and professionalism. He trusted me with clients and never dismissed my questions, no matter how many I asked. Working alongside him, I learned that true expertise is as much about attitude as it is about knowledge.
The Power of Female Friendship
Among my colleagues, one woman became a touchstone in my career. A few years my senior, she joined two years after I did, bringing warmth, experience, and a collaborative spirit. I watched her build a specialty team, get married, and become a mother: all while excelling at work. She proved it was possible to thrive both personally and professionally.
She organized workshops and social events; “palette and pub” nights became some of my favorite workplace memories. She supported me through major life changes, introduced me to a line of work I love, and showed that kindness and competence can most certainly go hand in hand.
Her recent departure left a void. Her going-away lunch was bittersweet: filled with laughter, memories, and the kind of black humor that perfectly encapsulated our office spirit.
Seasons of Change
Each retirement and departure has been challenging in its own way, pushing me to grow. It would be easy to settle into routines and resist change, but my coworkers have shown me, through mentorship, friendship, and example, the importance of adaptability, resilience, and gratitude.
I remember my first time leading a client call after one of my mentors retired. Pacing nervously, I could almost hear his voice reminding me that questions are good. Of course, I made mistakes, but I learned to recover, laugh at myself, and keep moving forward.
The office itself has changed too: weathering downturns, celebrating promotions, and rallying around coworkers in times of need. There are inside jokes that have lasted years, traditions like the annual chili, soup, and dessert cook-off, and spontaneous celebrations when someone passes a certification exam or secures a new client. New faces bring fresh perspectives, but the spirit endures: a place where people care for each other, and coworkers’ new children are still celebrated with Kringle, one per kid.
Looking Forward Looking back, my admiration and gratitude for my coworkers is immense. They have shaped not just my career but my character: supporting me through milestones and helping me become a better version of myself. As the next chapter unfolds, I am ready to pay it forward, mentoring the next generation and sharing the gifts I’ve received.
Who has been a mentor or colleague that left an indelible mark on your career, and what lesson from them do you carry with you today? Share your stories below, and subscribe to join a group of like-minded people.
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