Per My Last Email

Anonymous questions about work, life, and everything in between

Do you need to get it off your “desk”? Enter: Per My Last Email, an anonymous series where we’re getting the real deal on how women feel about their careers—the frustrating struggles, the joyful moments, and everything in-between. Whether you’re looking for real advice or just validation that we’re possibly all going through it right now, find their responses below.

How old are you?

31

What is your job?

Head of Social

What is your yearly income?

$71,000

What is your relationship status?

Taken

Do you have any children?

No children, two cats

Did you attend college?

Yes, I have a 4-year degree from a state university, BBA in Marketing

If yes, are you currently using the degree you went to school for?

Yes

What did you want to be when you were a kid?

I wanted to be a marine biologist or a dolphin trainer. I also thought working in a library would be cool.

What do you think your younger self would think of you today?

She would be proud to know that I made it independently. Due to my upbringing of constantly moving, I was taught from a young age not to depend on anyone.

Do you love your work?

I do not. Ironically, I have social anxiety that I continuously work to manage, despite having a marketing degree. I thought that pursuing a career in digital marketing would challenge me to overcome my anxiety, but instead, it often gets in the way.

Although I work for a fun company on the outside, I feel completely burned out from marketing and social media in general. The requirement to be online 24/7 in case of a PR crisis leaves virtually no work-life balance.

In 2025, I plan to actively apply for a new career path that better suits my personality.

Do you think you should love your work?

I think you should tolerate your work. It didn't occur to me that most people don't have extreme anxiety before going to work. I've been living like this close to ten years, and am trying to find a job/career path where I don't have to experience this every day.

What is your work-life balance like?

There is none 🥲 I sometimes "misplace" my phone so I'm not bombarded with messages from my boss on weekdays and weekends.

What is one thing you had to learn the hard way?

Speak up for what you believe in. Set boundaries - yes people will think you're a b*tch but if you don't speak up for yourself who will?

What is something you wish you'd known early in your career?

To spend time on a hobby. Don't let work get in the way of what nourishes your soul.

What is one piece of advice every woman needs to hear?

Go with your gut feeling and what speaks to your soul.

What's one thing you're struggling with? (at work or otherwise)

The Social Politics of Work: I worked remotely for five years at my previous company, during which time I thrived both personally and professionally. I was able to stop taking SSRIs because I was doing so well. However, now that I have returned to the office at my new company, I feel like all my progress has been reversed, and I will most likely need to start a new prescription.

What's one thing bringing you joy? (at work or otherwise)

Influencer marketing has been such a joy for me! I get to shine a spotlight on family content creators and celebrate diversity, which means a lot. That’s one of the main reasons I stick with this work. As a black woman, I love being able to give diverse families a seat at the table and help them land partnerships that they might have overlooked before. It feels amazing to create opportunities for them and see them win.

Is there anything else you want to get off your chest/desk?

If you're reading this, I wish you much success. Travel internationally whenever you can. Purchase the things you always wanted as a child. Create the life you have always desired. It's possible—stay optimistic and keep your head held high ♡

Have something you want to get off your desk? Answer this anonymous questionnaire to be included in a future edition of Per My Last Email: