Miranda had just finished the worst week of her advertising career. Having always been the company's "go to girl," this week's failure was particularly difficult. She had been working on a major account proposal and had put together three possible campaigns…sure to please even this client – the most difficult one.
The presentation day had finally arrived and donning her best "game face," she headed into the conference room to begin the meeting. She presented all three campaigns and tried to gauge the client's reaction. He sat there in silence for a few seconds before asking, "Ok…where is the real proposal?" Completely taken aback at his total disregard for her work, all she could do was stand there, speechless, with her mouth gaping open.
Not knowing exactly what to do since nothing like that had ever happened to her before, she flopped into her chair and just sat there, wondering what had just happened. Her boss came in…obviously aggravated at her performance….and began to lay into her about her having lost a potentially lucrative account. Still at a loss for words, she just sat there and stared at him. He asked if she had anything to say on her behalf before he and the other partners met to discuss how to handle the situation. All she could do was shake her head no….still in total disbelief.
Her boss suggested that she take a leave of absence while they decided whether she would still have a job with the firm. She gathered herself, trying to fight back the tears that were wanting to emerge against her will and decided to head home.
She got home, changed into her favorite comfort clothes…an oversized t-shirt and baggy sweatpants, poured herself a glass of wine and lounged on the sofa. The sound of the phone ringing interrupted her attempt at relaxation and she reluctantly answered it. It was her friend Katie calling to ask about the presentation. Miranda completely lost all control and began crying as she recounted the events of the day. Katie told her that she didn't need to be alone and was coming over right then.
A few minutes later there was a knock at the door, letting Miranda know that Katie had arrived. She answered the door and was greeted with a warm embrace from Katie. The two moved into the living room and Miranda sat while Katie poured herself a glass of wine.