The Relentless Pursuit of Worth

Dear Readers,

The morning light streamed through the dusty window, casting long shadows across the cramped apartment. I sat at my desk, staring at my aging laptop, the cursor blinking on yet another job application form. I had lost count of how many times I had filled out similar forms, tweaking my resume to suit each job description. my once-ironclad confidence had been eroded by months of silence, rejection, and the deafening indifference of the corporate world.

I was 43, with two decades of experience in project management. I had led teams, delivered multi-million-dollar projects, and solved problems others couldn't. Yet, here I was, unemployed and reduced to groveling for positions that barely scratched the surface of my capabilities. "Overqualified," they said. The word lingered in my mind like an accusation, as if being too capable was a sin.

In the beginning, I had approached the job hunt with optimism. I believed that my skills and experience would speak for themselves. But each rejection chipped away at my hope. Some emails were polite: "We regret to inform you that we have decided to move forward with another candidate." Others were cold and dismissive. Most didn’t respond at all.

My savings were dwindling. I had started cutting corners no more takeout, no new clothes, and only the essentials from the grocery store. My friends those who hadn’t distanced themselves after my layoff offered platitudes. "Something will come along," they said. But even their words began to ring hollow.

One day, after weeks of silence, I received an email inviting me to an interview. my heart raced as I read the message. The company was a mid-sized tech firm looking for a project manager. I spent hours researching the company, rehearsing answers to potential questions, and polishing my suit.

When the day came, I walked into the office with a mix of nerves and hope. The interviewer, a man in his early 30s, glanced at my resume and leaned back in his chair.

"Impressive," the man said. "But don't you think you're a bit overqualified for this role?"

my heart sank. "I’m looking for a role where I can contribute meaningfully and grow with the company," I replied, forcing a smile. I explained how my experience could bring value to the team.

The interviewer nodded but seemed unconvinced. "We’re looking for someone who’s more aligned with the company’s culture," he said vaguely, signaling the end of the conversation. I left the office knowing I wouldn’t get the job.

As I continued my search, I noticed a troubling pattern. Many of the people securing jobs were far less qualified than I was. I saw recent graduates with minimal experience landing roles I had applied for. I heard stories of promotions being handed to those who lacked the skills but excelled at office politics.

One evening, over a cup of tea with an old colleague, I voiced my frustration.

"It’s not about qualifications anymore," my friend said. "It’s about who you know, not what you know. And honestly, companies prefer younger candidates cheaper, easier to mold, and less likely to challenge authority."

I nodded, bitterness welling up inside me. I had spent years honing my craft, believing that hard work and expertise would be enough. But in this new reality, my dedication seemed irrelevant.

Desperate for a sense of belonging, I joined a support group for mid-career professionals struggling with unemployment. The group met weekly in a community center, sharing stories of rejection and resilience.

There was Sam, a marketing executive who had been replaced by a younger, cheaper hire. Tony, was a software engineer who had been deemed "too old" to keep up with new technologies. And Fatima, a teacher who had been let go because her methods were considered outdated.

The group became a lifeline for me. They exchanged tips, reviewed each other’s resumes, and provided a sense of camaraderie. But even within this circle, the harsh realities of the job market loomed large.

my lowest point came after yet another rejection. I sat in my apartment, staring at a pile of unpaid bills, and wondered if I’d ever find my place again. But as despair threatened to consume me, a thought struck me: If the system was broken, why not find another way?

I began exploring freelancing platforms and started offering my services as a project management consultant. The work was sporadic at first, but slowly, I built a client base. I learned to market myself, to adapt to the gig economy, and to find value in my own skills.

Months later, I landed a significant project with a startup. The team valued my experience and treated me with respect. For the first time in years, I felt seen and appreciated. I continued freelancing, eventually earning more than I had in my corporate job.

Looking back, I realize that my journey has taught me resilience and adaptability. The world had tried to diminish me, but I had found a way to reclaim my worth.

Reflection

My story is not unique. It is the story of countless professionals who are cast aside by a system that values youth over experience, and connections over competence. But my journey also serves as a reminder: Even in the face of rejection and injustice, there is always a way forward. It may not be easy, and it may require reimagining one’s path, but it is possible to rise again.

To anyone who feels unseen and undervalued: Your worth is not defined by a job title or a rejection letter. Keep fighting. Your story isn’t over.

Jacob M