Additional Coverage:
- I was adopted into a white, middle-class family and never felt like I belonged. It impacted how I show up at work. (newsbreak.com)
Orphaned at Seven, Adopted at Ten: The Impact on a Career
Christelle Pellecuer, orphaned at age seven, was adopted into a French family three years later. While she assimilated into French culture, she felt a sense of not belonging. This shaped her career path, leading to frequent job changes and a lack of self-advocacy.
Seeking Belonging in the Workplace
Pellecuer’s upbringing left her with a constant need for acceptance. This resulted in a pattern of leaving jobs quickly, driven by a fear of rejection. However, she believes that staying in one industry could have led to a greater sense of belonging.
Struggles with Self-Worth and Perfectionism
Pellecuer struggled to believe in her abilities, even when qualified for promotions. This stemmed from a lack of validation during her childhood. Perfectionism also became a coping mechanism, leading to burnout.
Confronting Negative Work Habits
In her late 30s, Pellecuer realized the negative impact of her adoption experiences on her career. She began to confront her low self-worth and work habits. Freelancing gave her the freedom to develop healthier practices and break free from unhealthy patterns.
Unlearning and Growing
Pellecuer’s journey is ongoing. She recognizes the need to unlearn behaviors that have held her back. By working to identify patterns and seek support, she aims to break free from her past and forge a fulfilling career path.