SINGAPORE:

In a candid discussion on Reddit, a local government employee revealed her ongoing struggle with anxiety after having spent over six months in her new position. Despite her dedication, she finds herself grappling with self-doubt and the fear that her performance isn’t meeting expectations.

In her heartfelt post, the woman described the high-pressure environment of her job that demands not only speed but precision. “This field is fast-paced, and I’m really finding it difficult to keep up, especially when I see colleagues who’ve been here longer excelling,” she confessed, revealing her concern that her supervisor might perceive her as incompetent.

“I feel burdened by the weight of expectations. Here I am, over half a year into my role, yet I still seek help from my colleagues on basic tasks. I worry that my questions might annoy them or perhaps even lead to my dismissal,” she added. This anxiety has clouded her professional life, making it hard for her to put forth her best effort each day.

Fortunately, the Reddit community rallied to offer support and advice. Many shared similar experiences, emphasizing that initial struggles are common and part of the adaptation process in any new job. They encouraged her to focus on gradual improvement and to be kinder to herself.

“You’re being too hard on yourself. Six months is just the beginning; nobody becomes a pro overnight,” one commenter reassured her. Another suggested, “Perhaps you should have an open conversation with your boss. This could provide clarity and an opportunity for constructive feedback.”

Experts suggest that workplace anxiety is not uncommon and can even be a catalyst for growth if handled correctly. Making mistakes in a new role can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that accountability and learning from errors are key to professional development.

When facing challenges at work, experts recommend a proactive approach: own up to mistakes without shifting blame, address the issue directly, and create strategies to avoid similar situations in the future. For instance, creating checklists or asking for guidance from peers can bolster confidence and improve performance.

As the woman contemplates her next steps, she may find solace in knowing that personal growth often comes with hurdles. Six months is a short time in the grand scheme of a career; with patience and tenacity, she can overcome her anxiety and blossom in her new role.

Navigating anxiety in the workplace is tough, but with the right mindset and support, it’s a challenge that can lead to greater resilience and success! If you are in a similar position, remember: everyone’s journey is unique, and progress, not perfection, is what truly matters!