Thursday, March 19, 2009

Closing a big door....

not tightly but..shutting it nicely.

I ended an era in my life tonight. I thought I would be more emotional but the fact that i am not makes me realize that it was time. H&M was my crutch for the past 7 years. I knew I wasn't ready to be a "big girl" when I graduated college and H&M enabled me to grow.

I was a shy, meek, chubby gal with no direction when I started. I had no sense of style, no fashion sense, no nothing. I sucked. I didn't even really know myself. I was too concerned with what others thought of me and was to scared to do anything. I had no confidence in my abilities in anything, school, work, etc. I was in such a bad place.

The day I started, I knew H&M was different. The employees were nuts but they were all themselves. They knew who they were and expressed it. We used to have this slogan that said, "we allow you to dress your personality." Some people went overboard but this slogan allowed employees to find out what made them happy. I know it sounds silly but fashion is expression and it can be very powerful.

That tiny little Swedish store gave me so much. It gave me the best friends in the world, confidence, and it allowed me to find my path. I moved up in the ranks and was a manager for almost 5 years. I knew that retail was not my passion. The confidence that I found in myself told me that hey, you have way more ability than folding sweaters. Do something!! So I did, and I really have never been happier with my decision.

Working at H&M showed me what i did not want. I did not want a mindless job. I wanted a fulfilling job that I would use my brain. I wanted to be someone.

But, the most important gift H&M gave me, was that I found myself. I found the real nicole. I discovered what I liked and what I wanted to be. I found confidence, happiness and fashion.

I know I would not be woman I am today without H&M and the people I have met while working there. It is apart of me. Its given me a better view of myself and my life. But now, I do not need them any more. I am doing what I want with my life and fulfilling a dream.

Thanks H&M! I am glad I am ending this era on my own. I'm letting go..but I won't forget you. I've grown up and I am okay with that.

2 comments:

Jenni B. said...

It's good to leave a place on your own accord and on good terms. So many people leave their jobs with regrets, anger, etc.--I think you can realize you've grown beyond your job and appreciate what it's given you without being all "so long suckers, peace!" about it.

Onwards and upwards to the land of cute professors!

N.I.C.O.L.E. said...

:) exactly... ooh dreamboats!! <3