I am returning to work after a two month medical leave and I am already dreading it.

Anonymous

June 26,2023 at 2:13PM UTC

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I am returning to work after a two month medical leave and I am already dreading it. I looked for some jobs during that time, but no success so far. I know it takes longer than two months to find a job, and was hoping to find something, but I know it’s wishful thinking. I know my manager is not happy with me because she did not wish me well, nothing before my surgery. I have decided to look for several reasons-job is dead end, blatant favoritism, and I am seeing unqualified younger employees promoted over older more experienced employees, myself included. I am 51 and I am feeling like I will be pushed out. Plus employees are required to be in the office every day. Not sure what will happen when I return, but the thought of going back is giving me a sense of dread and triggering my anxiety. I have to return for financial reasons. I can’t extend my leave any longer because I need to save that time in case my husband needs surgery. I just hate this feeling. I also used my time off to study for my certification and network. Anyway, thanks for listening to me vent.

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AnonymousJune 26,2023 at 2:47PM UTC
More people leave their manager than the company. I am sorry your position is not supportive.
Was your leave FMLA? Regardless, use FMLA for your husband's surgery.
Make sure your new certificate is on your resume and filed with HR.
Antonia CalzettiJune 27,2023 at 3:30PM UTC
If you're dreading returning to work and it's making your stomach turn, it's time to look for a new job. Providing you've been there a year, consider using FMLA to take additional time away so you can start a peaceful search for something else.
AnonymousJune 27,2023 at 4:25PM UTC
Keep looking for a new role, and when you do leave the negative thinking out of the conversation. Say things like I am feeling stagnant here and want to do more of XYZ or whatever you are looking to do. Life happens and if you can find a place where you feel you fit in culturally then things will feel better. Take the time and look at the population on LI you will see if the general team is similar to you in tenure. Then you can safely move to somewhere that will align better for your needs. Good luck in your search.
AnonymousJune 27,2023 at 4:28PM UTC
You know what you have to do.
Focus, update your resume, truly understand the impact that you have had so that you can concisely convey it to others, and buckle up for the ride. Searches are taking longer now but often well worth it. Have fun with the search and don’t take yourself too seriously.
tiffany birchJune 27,2023 at 4:55PM UTC
When you change your internal conversation from negative to positive, you align yourself with positive results. Take stock of your assets, putting your best self forward with an updated resume. Know your worth and value yourself. If you think less of yourself, others will too. I imagine you have much to bring to the table in a much better work situation. Everything takes longer since COVID hit. Be patient. Maybe take a contract job while you are looking for a permanent position. Much success.
AnonymousJune 28,2023 at 12:56PM UTC
I am in a similar situation. I have been at my job 9 years and used to like it UNTIL: they brought in a new manager, and she has turned this department into a mean girl atmosphere. She does not like me at all. I am also over 50 and fear no one will want to hire someone like me. I am currently looking to leave. It is because of a bad manager not necessarily the company.
I wish you well in your search and to maybe help you along, keep your head down, do your work and listen to podcasts if you can. It drowns out all the favoritism you may overhear.
Rebecca MillikenJune 28,2023 at 2:18PM UTC
I was hired for my current job at age 56. Don't think about what you don't have to offer, think about what you've got going for you. Just keep looking and keep positive.
Angela Turner, MBAJune 28,2023 at 3:00PM UTC
I have a new job at 56 with pension benefits in a new field. Im not sure what you do, but maybe look around at what areas/fields need experienced people who can mentor the "new crop", as a lot seem to be looking for guidance. Maybe make a list- your skills on one side and industries in need on the other. Just a thought. Sending supportive vibes your way.
Mikki.hubbard@outlook.comJune 28,2023 at 3:53PM UTC
Here's hoping that you planted enough seeds while networking that an opportunity will present itself soon. Make sure you stay in touch with those in your network who know your work best who can highly recommend you to others
Farah BajwaJune 28,2023 at 6:24PM UTC
When I went on medical leave it was by a doctor who had multiple patients who worked for the same company. so she knew the demands. It was her idea to send me back to work with a doctor's note: she capped my work hours to 32 per week. This meant I worked for 6 hours per day for an additional 3 months. It was wonderful! I actually left work with energy left in me and daylight outside! of course my pay was proportionally cut back but I didn't mind something to consider??