Write a story about each of the projects you have worked on.. The problems, the discussions, the plan of attack and the outcome, cost savings for the company, technology used. As though they were all separate consulting jobs.

Take out company names and specifics.

Have an objective look at what you have done and assess it again, because now you've taken the emotion out of it ('repeatedly thrashing' etc) and you are left with cold and useful facts about your projects.

You then have a portfolio that you can show new potential employers. I am in a similar situation and am currently doing the same.