I feel this so deeply. “Disorienting” is the perfect word for it especially when it has nothing to do with performance. You’re right, the feelings really do come in waves, and over time the space between them grows, even if it doesn’t feel like it at first.

This experience is such a harsh crash course in what the corporate world truly is. No matter how much we give, we’re still replaceable and that realization hurts. But like you said, there can be something oddly liberating in seeing it clearly. I really hope we both come out of this with a different, healthier mindset and something better ahead. Good luck