Politician and Labour MP for Hampstead and Kilburn

Fresh out of university, I experienced working in a toxic environment with a bullying atmosphere, where I was shouted at, put down and made to feel worthless. I was told, “You’ll never make it with a name like Tulip,” and that being less than five feet tall would hold me back. Even though I was so unhappy that I would nearly throw up as I approached the office, I worried about leaving because I thought I might never get another opportunity. There’s a sense that we must stick things out, but your happiness and mental health are more important. Eventually I left, being careful not to burn bridges, and I’m so glad I did. The lesson? If you’re unhappy, take action. If I could speak to twentysomething me again, I’d tell her to leave sooner – and not listen to the haters!

I then worked for human rights organisations and in financial PR. I learnt so much – lobbying, communication, writing press releases – but ultimately realised I craved politics. Timing is everything, though. In 2010 I stood successfully to be a local councillor, and someone asked if I wanted to be an MP. Initially, I’d considered it, but I told them I wasn’t ready. I cut my teeth at the council and stood to be an MP in 2015 – and won. Enthusiasm is good, but so is realism. I wouldn’t have been a good MP in 2010 because I wouldn’t have understood how the machinery of government works.

There’s always a reason not to do something. My wedding was the same week as the candidate selections for the 2015 election. A legitimate reason? Perhaps. But if I had missed that opportunity, I’d have had to wait four more years. You might be having a crisis, but think carefully about whether that’s a good enough reason not to go for it. In the end, my sister planned my wedding; she found our venue and did our food tasting. If I’d held back, I wouldn’t be where I am now.