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Taking the plunge and changing jobs?

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Taking the plunge and changing jobs?

12 years ago 0 +0 / -0 10

Hi It is Hope again,

I have started a new job int he past week. So far it is going ok but for some anxiety and low self worth, thoughts like "there is no way i can do this" and "i will not succeed" and "that other new hire is doing better than I". I stopped the cbt program awhile back for no good reason (maybe i was feeling bettter?)

so i am going to start again at step one with the activity tracker. i also have a worry sheet cause it seems like htat is what i am doing. I am happy to be at my new employment, and really hope that it works out. Otherwise, Im pretty dysthymic all the time. joining the gym tomorrow i hope will help.

12 years ago 0 +0 / -0 10

I am glad to read all the postings on this thread. I was laid off in november, however had many options to choose from to stay in the organization, none of which appealed to me, and i resigned giving up 2.75 years seniority in a well paying, although high stress, position. It was my first post grad job in the field.

I wasnt sure if it was the right thing to do or not, I even went and saw my psychotherapist to ensure I wasnt making a rash decision, she said "what makes you think that nobody else is going to hire you?". And I took that as "permission" to resign although I think I really needed someone to say "wait. you dont have to do this. you can take a leave of absence or such". I havent done well on interviews, and I am tired with self defeating thoughts [which i will learn how to challenge with cbt] So naturally now I regret it, who resigns from a job in the middle of a recession? I can't fault anyone, I have to take accountability for my decision. I also have to stop beating myself up. I am on benefits. I am ok. I have no debt. I live very simply. I am also getting an opportunity to work on my dysthymia treatment (cbt), and research what other opportunities this world holds for me. I only live once. I just gotta stop discussing my career with my doctor and psychotherapist, cause really my decisions do not affect them. Honestly at this point I am not even sure how I got through university! Must have been a miracle.

13 years ago 0 +0 / -0 1044

Kirk, I had to retire from my human service position due to my depression. I didn't work due to my level of functioning for a couple of years. I can so relate to the income change. I work now to subsidize my income. I work two jobs. I sat for twenty some odd years and did paperwork and interacting with people and I still do that 11 hours a week. I took a labor intensive job working in landscaping. I love it. lol, if you'd told me that a year ago....I would never have believed you. I read about the other issues you have in your life regarding your children. That is added financial burden.

I hope one day to go back into counseling but for now, I do what I can do. Have you considered your options? I know human service work doesn't pay well here anyway and jobs in the field are scarce.

Just wanting you to know I can relate and see if you have options?

I look forward to your posts.

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 217

Hi Kirk,

I can very much relate to this post. I understand how certain jobs can be really high stress. And the one that you mention sounds extremely stressful. You had to make a decision. Now you must find a balance that works for you. What is more important at the end of the day? Perhaps it is not too late to search for even another position? Here for you!

Strength

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 3

I changed jobs to lower my stress level for less pay. My job was very stressful. I was a child welfare worker. I did it for years. One of my insights since leaving was that if I had managed my stress better, and not "lived for the company" so to speak, I probably could have hung in. Now my main source of stress and depression is living on a lot less money, which actually feels worse. I have to have a second job, which effectively negates the benefits of leaving the old job. In hindsight, I made an impulsive decision. I wish I had known about this depression center then. Maybe someone would have talked some sense into me.

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 1044

KittyKat, I hope that was a rhetorical question...."how often don't we take our own advice". Oh how easy it is to give it, than apply it. Knowing and doing are two different things.

I am glad you did some homework before making a major change like that.

Look forward to more of your insightful (make me think) kind of posts as well as anything else you chose to share.

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 910

Hey KittyKat,

Thanks for the update. I am glad you are feeling a bit better about this all. Feel free to come vent with us anytime!

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 113

So I decided to come back to this thread and try and use the tips I learned from the Problem Solving part of Session 7. I agree with Andy that maybe changing jobs isn't the greatest idea and I tried what you suggested Luciana nd it did help somewhat. So I as silly as this may sound using tip #2 from problem solving ( What advice would you give to other people in a similar situation? Follow your own advice.), I have been telling myself the following over the last week and a bit: At least you have a job, and there are days that you do enjoy, such as when you feel accomplished when you get a project done, you also get benefits and vacation and it does pay the bills, so try to look at the situation in a more optimistic kind of way. How often do we not take our own advice?

This has helped, and I think I'm going to continue with where I am...ah well, life goes on, I'm so glad I have you guys to vent to. Thanks for listening :)

Kat

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 10

Hi there Kitty Kat,

Well, I can tell you from personal experience that for me changing my job didn't really change my mood. I have switched jobs many time in the past,a nd it is alomsot worse to deal with the stress of going from one to another. Then once I settle in, I start feeling the same as I did at my old one.

It sounds to me like you maybe need a chance of scenery, can you ask to be moved to another location, one with windows?

14 years ago 0 +0 / -0 224

Hello KittyKat,

There are many pros and cons to consider when it comes to changing your job. Only you can truly determine if this could be beneficial. I encourage you to write your thoughts down to help you gain a better understanding.

In the meantime, we all know that any job can prove to be stressful at times. Here are some ideas on how to reduce stress at work:

•   Practice your deep breathing. Deep breathing improves circulation and eases muscle tension.
•   Check your e-mail. Subscribe to a messaging service that will send you daily jokes or inspirational quotes. A few funny or inspiring words can help lift your spirit and gain perspective
•   Turn on your radio: Classical music has been shown to induce relaxation. Have it on in the background or tune in online. Many radio stations now have live feeds via the internet.
•   Stretch! Take a few minutes in between long tasks to take a stretch break. It can help increase alertness, improve blood flow and relieve tension.
•   Day dream. Give yourself five minutes and imagine yourself in a place far, far away from your desk.
•   Make the most of your lunch hour! Many workplaces now offer exercise classes during lunch or after work. If your place of employment doesn’t offer these types of classes, check out the neighborhood. Chances are there are classes around your workplace or you can take it into your own hands. Go out for coffee & a walk before, during or after work.
•   Mini massages: Got carpal tunnel? Typing & writing can wear on your hands; try giving yourself a little massage to relieve the tension.
•   Redo your cubicle: Bring things from home like pictures, plants, a stress ball, a sudoku book. Turn your space into a place you like spending time in.

Members, please share your tips for relaxing at work?

Luciana, Bilingual Health Educator

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Taking the plunge and changing jobs?