How to gain professional confidence and focus back

Anonymous

March 11,2023 at 5:30PM UTC

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How to gain professional confidence and focus back

I quit a very stressful job after just 3 months due to incompetent and non-communicative management. Working evenings, weekends without any sense of direction or accomplishment, I quickly burnt out. The job I had before was at the opposite end of the spectrum, in a different field which I did not see myself growing in. I would like to continue working in this new field but for the last few months, I have crippling anxiety in professional contexts, feel like I am good for nothing and am not able to focus on anything for long periods of time. I have applied to several jobs but to no avail. Even though it sounds bit irrational and absurd I suppose, I worry that I have not only lost the drive but also my intelligence..I would appreciate some advice on how to gain confidence back. I am currently learning new skills, but I feel very meek, timid and have a shred of the self-esteem I used to have since this last job experience..

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AnonymousMarch 11,2023 at 10:20PM UTC
I think that everything you're experiencing is normal. It's trauma based and you need to heal and rest
Address your selfcare, rest and decompressin. Once you have some clarity of thought list out your professional accomplishments. Just write out everything big and small that you had a hand in accomplishing. Then ask friends and family what they see as your strengths personally then go to any professional contacts or friends and do the same.
Finally, keep reading you resume and acknowledge your growth and the talent it took to do all your resume describes.
Then start applying that talent to help others. Start with sharing your professional take in some of the posts on thus board. It's important to uses that muscle and keep connecting to improve your view of the professional world and your interaction in it. There are a million different ways to share your wisdom and talent. Don't isolate and don't be meek. The world needs sharp minds abd creative thinkers. You have a lot to share.
BeaBoss979975March 12,2023 at 7:50AM UTC
Spend some quality time with a good therapist, too, to address crippling anxiety. There are medications that can be a huge help, too.
AnonymousMarch 12,2023 at 12:50PM UTC
I have no advice to share. I did the same thing last year and experienced the same feelings. I just wanted you to know that you’re not alone. You’ve been through an awful experience. Maybe a short course of therapy to point you in the right direction? I would give it a try. Sending you good vibes.
AnonymousMarch 15,2023 at 2:40PM UTC
My situation was a little different than yours but the same. I had feelings of “I’m so stupid and lazy why would anyone hire me”. Took some good therapy and sessions with my BFF to finally realize I am worth something, that it wasn’t me it was THEM. It has taken me over a year to see this, but I am better than ever.
therapy helps! I strongly recommend it!
AnonymousMarch 15,2023 at 2:48PM UTC
Did you use a service for therapy or an individual?
AnonymousMarch 17,2023 at 1:31AM UTC
I used an individual. And she was the perfect fit for me and my situation. I needed someone with her honesty to help me regain my confidence. When I searched for someone I specifically looked for someone who dealt with job stress. I believe psychology today has a search engine to use to find people.
AnonymousMarch 15,2023 at 2:48PM UTC
I very much sympathize with you after coming from a completely toxic environment where the abuse was rampant. I also need this advice because I have imposter syndrome that is very much getting in my way.
AnonymousMarch 15,2023 at 2:58PM UTC
Yikes. A stressful work environment with toxic people will do that to you. Please don’t give up! You are more than your job. Really
AnonymousMarch 15,2023 at 3:36PM UTC
That was me up until a few weeks ago! I have been in the same spot as you and changed jobs a few weeks ago and it's crazy how quickly I'm bouncing back from a slump I was afraid was permanent. Find something where you're valued and can apply yourself and you've got this! It was one of the hardest times I've gone through so my heart is with you.
AnonymousMarch 15,2023 at 11:11PM UTC
I am totally in your same situation. I wonder if I will stop. I am valued but burnt out, frustrated, and feel no drive. Normally, I am excited and gave a kot of drive.
AnonymousMarch 16,2023 at 3:46PM UTC
It is amazing how many people have experienced the same type of thing. I appreciate your bravery for posting this and starting the conversation. I am also trying to build myself back up from being broken by a toxic environment surrounded by toxic people. I hope some time away will help.