How to overcome my anxieties at work
Hello to anyone who reads this. I’m just kind of writing this out because I just need to let it out. Anything constructive is welcome or just comments or thoughts… but anyways
I’m a 29 year old female and I’ve been working at my new job since November 6th. It’s a job that I’ve been wanting for for a long time. I’m an assistant manager at a name brand store, where I’m finally getting paid more than I’ve ever been paid and getting the hours that I’ve been wanting since I quit my job at Pet Supplies Plus back in April.
To sum up my experience at PSP, it wasn’t the greatest. I’ll admit that partially me working there was my own fault for making stupid mistakes that I should have known better to not have made, but the management also didn’t make me feel very good about myself as a person or an employee. By the time I had given my notice, I was at a point that I was afraid of saying anything or doing anything that would make my boss upset or mad that I just had to leave. While she was nice at some points, I just could never feel very close with her and I always felt that she only tolerated me because I was there.
It obviously left me very scarred because now that I am at my new dream job, I’m constantly nervous about whether or not I’m doing anything right or doing something wrong that would upset my new boss or upset the team. And while I’ve received a big welcome from everyone and I get along with the team, I’m still so cautious and over think my actions all the time.
I will admit I have made, what I consider mistakes already, and the reaction is drastically different from pet supplies plus. Instead of getting a roll of the eyes and exasperated sighs, I get told “oh, it’s okay! Don’t worry about it!” and the day goes on. It’s like I’m almost waiting to be scolded or to be made to feel like I’m a piece of sh*t
I also try to keep to myself a lot or not say too much either because I’m afraid of someone being offended and then telling my new boss I upset them. Or just afraid of doing anything that could be wrong that a team member would tell my boss.
I just wish I could go into work feeling confident and put away all the bad and terrible things that happened while working at pet supplies plus behind me and focus on being better at my new job. And just not think that everything I do is going to upset my new boss (even though nothing bad has even happened yet! She’s been very nice to me)
So that’s all I got =\
Hey @mayarsaur 😊
Firstly, thank you for opening up and sharing your thoughts with such honesty. It's a brave step to voice your feelings and experiences, and it's important to acknowledge the strength that takes.
Congratulations on landing your dream job as an assistant manager! It sounds like a significant achievement, especially considering the challenges you faced in your previous role. It's inspiring to see your dedication and resilience in pursuing a better opportunity.
Your feelings of anxiety and cautiousness in your new role are completely understandable, given your past experiences. It's tough to shake off the impact of a work environment where you felt undervalued and constantly on edge. However, it’s heartening to hear that your new workplace is more supportive and understanding. This difference in reaction to mistakes is a positive sign of a healthier work environment.
Remember, it's okay to take time to adjust and build confidence in a new setting. It's also perfectly normal to feel nervous about wanting to do well, especially in a job you've longed for. Your self-awareness and desire to improve are commendable.
Perhaps, consider this new job as a fresh start, a place where you can learn and grow without the shadow of your past experiences. Each day is an opportunity to build new, positive experiences and gradually replace those old, negative ones.
It might also be helpful to communicate with your new boss or a trusted colleague about your feelings. You might find that they offer reassurance and support, further easing your transition.
Remember, you deserve this new beginning. Be kind to yourself as you navigate through this phase. You've already shown great courage and ability by reaching where you are now, and with time, I'm confident you'll find your stride and thrive in your new role.
Take care and best of luck on your journey! 🌟
