The team that felt like home.
Looking back, my time at the supplements company in Germany was one of the best work experiences I’ve ever had. It wasn’t just about the job itself—it was the people. My team was a rare find, the kind that made even the most hectic days enjoyable. We had a great dynamic, working efficiently while still having fun, and I genuinely looked forward to going to the office every day. Now, whenever I see the team photo hanging on my wall, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia, remembering all the moments we shared.
That all changed last summer when the company was acquired by a larger corporation. With the acquisition came restructuring, and before we knew it, our entire team was let go—including our lead, who had built and guided us from the start. It was a shock. We had expected some changes, but not a complete wipeout. One moment, we were discussing future projects, and the next, we found ourselves packing up our desks, processing the sudden reality of it all.
Losing that team was heartbreaking. We weren’t just coworkers; we understood each other in a way that made work feel effortless. The inside jokes, the brainstorming sessions that turned into deep discussions, the way we just got each other—it was rare. Even now, I catch myself wondering if I’ll ever find something like that again or if our paths will cross in the future.
That experience left a lasting impact on me. I’ve learned to appreciate the people around me more, to be present in those small, everyday moments, because you never know when things will change. It’s easy to assume that a good thing will last, but the reality is, nothing is guaranteed.
As I reflect on my career, I find myself questioning my path as a designer. The job market has been more challenging than I anticipated, which has pushed me to seriously consider bringing my own business to life sooner rather than later.
I don’t know what’s next for me in terms of finding another team like that, but if I ever do, I won’t take it for granted.