This conference was meant to be all business—networking sessions, breakthrough insights, and maybe even a few free pens. Yet, as life would have it, the tradeshow floor became the stage for some of my most tangled emotions.

Last year at this very conference, I met a man who sparked something indescribable. For the past year, I thought I was in love with him—but in the last few weeks, I’ve come to realize that what I truly fell in love with was the person I became because of him. Our deep friendship and passionate connection filled me with hope and transformed me in ways I never imagined.

But fate had its own plans. Just before this conference, we ended things. The hard truth is that he is not available for me. Now, as I navigate the conference halls dodging awkward advances and absorbing every insightful session, my heart still quietly breaks over the loss of what I so desperately wanted to be the one.

Yet, on the plus side, this role is pushing me to grow in ways I never imagined. I’m building real confidence with every conversation—speaking with customers, forging genuine business relationships, and proving to myself that I can shine professionally even when personal life feels like it’s in freefall. Every interaction is a reminder that I am capable, resilient, and more than the sum of my past loves.

As I write this before embarking on Day 3 of the conference, I find myself at a crossroads—still processing the bittersweet goodbye to a love that transformed me, yet fiercely determined to keep moving forward. With anticipation and a touch of trepidation, I’m ready to see what Day 3 holds. Every session, every handshake, and every small victory fuels my belief that I am not only capable of thriving in my career, but also of being genuinely happy in my own skin—standing tall and steady, all on my own.