Is Loyalty at Work Just a One-Way Street?

I've been with my current multinational company for two years, after being denied a promotion in my previous team—apparently, showing frustration during a soccer game isn't "leadership material." Since then, I've juggled both management and technical roles, even after my team shrank to just me. Despite promises of recognition and support, nothing ever changed. After months of burnout and anxiety, I finally confronted HR and my director, only to be told that a promotion was never guaranteed. When I got a new job offer, suddenly my old team wanted me back, but only with more work and a "pay bump"—which felt more like a demotion. The message was clear: do more for less, or else. I'm honestly at a loss. Has anyone else felt trapped like this? How do you put yourself first without feeling guilty? Would love to hear your advice. 😓 #CareerGrowth #WorkplaceAdvice #JobSearch #JobCareer