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That Time I Was Accused of Being an Addict … Because I Was Too Happy!!!

benefits of positivity building a positive mindset choosing the right mentor emotional intelligence in leadership happiness and success leadership and happiness mentorship tips overcoming workplace negativity personal growth strategies success through self-improvement Dec 07, 2024

An office setting decorated for the holidays, featuring a professional young man in a blue uniform being confronted by an older woman with a stern expression. The image conveys a dramatic and emotionally charged moment, juxtaposed with festive Christmas lights and a tree in the background.

Choosing a mentor is one of the best decisions that you can make.

The right one can turbocharge your success and the wrong one, whilst useful for life lessons can inflict two steps back for every one step forward.

I'll be your right one. Here's why...

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I'd Like To Share A True Story...

Years ago, when I was a student funding my law degree, in Chelmsford in Essex, I got a part-time job over the Festive Season at a well known high street chemist and department store in the UK. Back then, they had a record department—you know, CDs, vinyl, stereos, radios—all the good stuff that feels like ancient history now. As a DJ and music enthusiast, I landed in my dream spot: selling and playing music I loved.

It was an amazing time. I made great friends, shared my passion for music, and even got offered a full-time job for the New Year.

Life was good… until one bizarre morning.

The HR Intervention

One day, I was called into the HR director’s office. Imagine my confusion—three to six months into the job, and here I was, being summoned like I’d done something epic or disastrous.

The HR director sat me down with a serious look that screamed intervention. Then she dropped this bombshell:

“Dave, I have reason to believe you have a drug problem.”

I blinked. What?!

Apparently, my crime was being too enthusiastic. She explained that several staff members had reported my “bouncing around,” my constant chatting, and my overly positive demeanour. Their conclusion? “He must be on something!”

My response?

“I don’t take drugs. Never have. I’m just happy to be here, I enjoy the work, and I love talking to people. Life’s too short to be miserable.”

The look on her face was priceless. It finally dawned on her: not only was I telling the truth, but something was deeply wrong with the company culture if enthusiasm was seen as suspicious. She apologised, sent me back to work, and that was the last time we ever spoke.

A Toxic Wake-Up Call

That moment stuck with me. What kind of workplace leaves people so demoralized that genuine joy is mistaken for drug use?

What kind of colleagues report you for being keen, kind and enthusiastic?

So What Did I Do Next?

Good question. I walked the Chelmsford Shopping mall during my lunchtimes for the next week to let it all sink in.

I knew I couldn’t grow in a place like that. Sure, I was being prepped for management, but what’s the point of climbing the ladder in a broken system? They were NEVER going to champion me if they failed on the absolute basics.

Understanding me.

So, I walked away at the first opportunity.

Jean Jeanie (a cool upmarket clothing store with loud music and attractive staff) was advertising in the window for new staff.

I walked in, applied and started working there the next day.

It was awesome.

Shortly after that, I started doing the early morning (cheery) shift on Chelmsford Hospital Radio and the rest is history.

Except, when the store manager banned me from going home to see my family on Christmas day and refused to let me swap with another member of staff.

Hahahahahaha...

That's another story for another time.

Looking back 40 years later, I’ve never regretted that decision to walk away.

Sometimes the biggest red flags are also the clearest signs to leave.

Your Takeaway

We’ve all been in places—jobs, relationships, friendships—that felt toxic, but leaving feels daunting. Here’s the truth: staying in an uncomfortable comfort zone is often the bigger risk. When you take that leap, you breathe fresh air, see new opportunities, and often realise it was the best decision you’ve ever made.

If you’re stuck in a situation that drains your joy, pay attention to the warning signs. It doesn’t mean you’re wrong, and it doesn’t mean they’re wrong—but it does mean it’s time for a change. Be true to the people who support you, because in the end, they’re the ones who truly matter.

Reset.

Refocus.

Reclaim your happiness.

You're NOT wrong.

Do YOU.

Everyone else is taken.