what makes work worth working for
When people talk about loving their job, they often mention exciting projects, great benefits, or cool office spaces. But when I think back to the job I loved most, it wasn’t because of any of those things.
It’s mostly about the people you work with—and for me, it was especially my lead who made all the difference.
He wasn’t the loudest in the room. He didn’t walk around trying to impress anyone. In fact, he was quiet, kind, and deeply grounded. But what made him special was how much he cared. Not just about the work—but about people.
He led with empathy. Always.
Even when things were hectic, even when deadlines were pressing, he somehow made space for everyone. I remember how he’d say things like, “If you’re feeling sick, just take the day off,” or “If things get too much, take a walk, clear your head.” He meant it. And because he meant it, we all learned to take care of ourselves better, too.
I’m the kind of person who constantly second-guesses my own work. I get caught up in self-doubt, in wondering if what I did was good enough. But with him, I never felt afraid to ask, to show work in progress, or to admit when I wasn’t sure. His feedback was honest and constructive, but never harsh. He wanted people to grow—not to prove anything, but just because he believed in them.
And even when he gave suggestions, he’d say, “Even what I’m saying could be wrong.” That humility was rare. And powerful. It made me trust him more, not less. It made me feel like we were working together, not working for him.
Our whole UX team looked up to him. There was a quiet respect that didn’t need to be spoken aloud. He created a space where we all felt safe, supported, and motivated. Work was still work—it had its hard days, its tight deadlines—but somehow, under his leadership, it felt easier. Lighter. Even fun.
Looking back now, I realize how much I learned from him—not just about design or feedback, but about leadership, empathy, and creating humane spaces. About how it’s possible to be excellent without being intimidating. Supportive without being soft. Humble without shrinking yourself.
He showed me that sometimes, what makes a job meaningful isn’t the job itself, but the people we share it with. And how one truly good person can lift an entire team.
Even now, I still carry that experience with me. I hope one day, in my own way, I can be that kind of person for someone else.