Did I Make The Right Choice? 3 Emotions Everyone Feels At A New Job
By Tammy Stone, The Psychology of Business.
Are you ready for a change? Starting a new job is a challenging, rewarding, and terrifying experience. It can be tough if you’re not sure what to expect. A new company means new routines, new coworkers, and a new culture. Change takes us out of our comfort zone, and the older we get the more we resist it. New systems and coworkers mean there are new rules to follow. The emotional pendulum swings rapidly in your first few weeks. Be ready for these three emotions at a new job.
1. I Love it Here!
Hopefully this is how most people feel. There are many reasons we look for a new job; better pay, career opportunities, benefits, etc. Nobody leaves a job that they are 100% happy in, but exactly how many people are unhappy at work? According to Forbes, “52.3% [of employees] are unhappy at work” (Forbes). That means half of the people in your office could be looking for new opportunities. Everyone will have different priorities for making a career change. If your next company aligns with your goals, then there’s a good chance you’ll be happier in your new role.
2. Did I Make a Mistake?
Buyer’s remorse is natural. No matter how unhappy you were at your last job, you’ll ask yourself if you made the right decision. Change forces us out of our comfort zone, and “there [is] an emotional impact to everyone” (Forbes). Every new task can feel like an uphill battle. Eventually you will be comfortable and confident at your new job. During the tough moments, focus on the positives that attracted you to the job.
3. I’ll Never Learn All of This.
Are you feeling like a small fish in a big pond? Even the simplest task can get the best of your emotions. Finding the closest printer, bathroom, or parking space can seem like a hurdle. Nobody likes to feel stupid and ask questions that they used to know the answer to. It takes time to figure things out. In most jobs, “it takes anywhere from three to six months to feel like you know what you’re doing” (USNews). Hang in there. Change is good for growth, and everyone feels vulnerable when they are new.
Take Advantage
New employees have a grace period as “the new guy” or “the new girl”. Use that to your advantage. Even if the answer seems obvious, ask a lot of questions. There is vulnerability when we doing anything new. Don’t feel bad or give up, the uncomfortableness is normal, and it will pass. Good Luck!
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