Key Insights
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1. Burnout is Often a Breaking Point of Misalignment.
Jasmine's burnout was not caused by a single factor, but a combination of unsustainable hours, physical and mental toll, and a clear misalignment between her authentic self and the requirements of her job. She felt compelled to hide her "superpowers"—personality, happiness, spunk—which compounded the stress.
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2. Core Litigation Skills Transfer Powerfully to Transactional and In-House Roles.
Moving from litigation to in-house commercial legal was possible because litigators are expert rapid learners. Jasmine successfully pitched herself as highly coachable and willing to master a new domain, proving that her fundamental skill was learning new subject matter quickly and thoroughly, a necessity in fast-paced transactional work.
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3. Mission and Culture Outweigh Hyper-Growth Alone.
For long-term commitment and high motivation, mission and people/culture are paramount, sometimes trumping title or compensation. Jasmine requires a workplace where she can be her authentic self without "code switching" or "putting on airs," allowing her to invest fully in a cause she believes in.
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4. The Power of a Sabbatical for Self-Discovery.
A career break (like becoming a spin instructor) can provide critical perspective. The spin instructor role was satisfying because it was inherently mission-driven (making a difference daily) and team-oriented, providing the exact qualities she realized were missing from her previous legal career.
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5. Networking and Mentorship are Essential for Non-Linear Career Moves.
Breaking into a specialized role (in-house, from a year-long gap) is nearly impossible without a personal connection. Jasmine's job at 24 Hour Fitness came directly from a former law firm colleague who vouched for her, proving that advocates are necessary to get past initial screening barriers.

6. Closing Insight

Trusting your gut and prioritizing authentic leadership is not a soft skill; it is the ultimate strategy for unlocking your full potential and ensuring your career trajectory is one of sustainable, mission-driven success.