Savings is crucial. You must be able to convey to bosses that you are financially independent enough to tell them no.

Also, compassion for the public AND the long-term reputation of the company must be a foundation. Focus on those first and petty Quality Assurance scores second. That way every QA review will begin with getting your reviewer to first admit that you are great and the company is lucky to have you; then as a consolation prize--a personal favor to them, you will promise to try to raise on that petty QA score.

Also, here’s a little inspiration song to go along with this topic: “The Way I Should” by Iris Dement.