Is not something I welcome. Specifically when it is a change that I am being forced to make. I am trying to get a handle on a grasping a positive attitude, but I am really struggling right now.
You see, we had to make some temporary changes in my office. As such, after 6 years of sitting at the same desk, doing the same job, with the same people, I have been moved to another department. One that I am totally unfamiliar with. On a different floor. With different co-workers. And even a different coffee maker. I feel lost and confused having been removed from my element. I even broke down and cried this morning.
In fact I am crying at my ‘new’ desk Right. Now.
I am not supposed to write about work, especially while I am at work, but it’s my lunch hour. Since I am desperately trying to find a way to feel better about this sudden unwanted change and I am searching for a way to get though this transition, the only way I know how to deal with stress and tension is to write about it.
What I dislike the most, is the not knowing what I am doing. I am afraid I am going to make mistakes. Mistakes that could cost my company money. I know that I can ask as many questions as I need to. I know that I have people I can trust that will support and help me with the tasks I do not understand. But this is still, well, scary.
I am doing my best to be a Team Player. I feel that I owe it to my boss to at least give this new position a shot. After all, my company has made many exceptions and given me the ‘special treatment’ on several occasions. But, um, I am not exactly cut out for “Customer Service”.
I keep telling myself this is only temporary. But, I am not very clear on the definition of ‘Temporary’. And, I certainly don’t think I will be able to keep this up for 6 months.
I keep telling myself this is an opportunity to learn something new, but all I want to do is run for the front door screaming. The idea of working at the CVS across the street from my house has never looked better. Except that I am not a teenager. And I can not simply run away. I am a grown up with real responsibilities, and real medical issues, which require having things like Health Benefits, and holding a Real Job.
I am hopeful that with time, I will adjust to this? I am hoping that since this is my 1st day trying something totally foreign, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed? I am hoping eventually I won’t feel like hiding underneath my desk or cowering away from fellow employees with my shoulders slouched inwards hump back style.
Because right now, I am absolutely miserable.
However, Thanks to my mom for this laugh below.
Being put in a different environment can be very stressful to any person.
So a big hug from me first.
If it helps, take a step back, don’t react – don’t try to be positive or negative, just don’t react for a few days. Then slowly see how you can react out to the environment.
Good Luck.
RMH:
Thank you. That’s wonderful advice. I am just a little Freaked Out right now. And it is Monday.
Yo it’s totally normal to feel the way you do. Getting A 180 thrown in your lap on a F—ing Monday morning is no picnic for anyone. Don’t stress about the new work load, Because it is just as you said something new to learn. In fact it might be just the thing to break the manotany that made you want to throw yourself off a bridge everyday at your old desk, doing the same sh_t everyday. Believe it or not Meleah even for you “Miss NO CHANGE”, change can be a “GOOD” thing. Just the new people and atmosphere is going to make going to your 9-5 DEATH TRAP seem new again. Things happen for a reason. This one is a good one !!!
Awwwh, I would say don’t cry, but heck, crying makes you feel better. It’s how you (I) deal with your (my) problems sometimes. You need that release, give in to it.
My question is why would they put you in a position that you know little about? Just be straight up and say “look I don’t know how to do whatever” and ask for help. There is nothing wrong with not knowing, but plenty wrong with not asking. I’m sure your new coworkers will be glad to show you the ropes. People love feeling smart, give them the opportunity to earn a PhD.
You read intelligent to me, just take one step/day at a time. Don’t worry about tomorrow or the next hour. I know this is super easy for me to say and much harder for you to do, but you’re Meleah, show confidence in your intelligence, even when you are unsure of your abilities.
The last person I tried to help off a ledge didn’t make it, so you have to. Hope I made you smile.
WHO LOVES YOU!!!!!?
Change is hard. But may I remind you of all that you’ve been through? You totally reinvented your life, girl! Now, that is some major change. And you did it! You lived to tell and write about it.
If you did that, you can do anything.
It doesn’t make what you’re going through right now any easier, however. You’re smart to do what you do best: which is to write about it. When you wake up in the morning dreading another day at your new job, tell yourself, “I can do this.” Because you can. And you will.
Hang in there! 🙂
I can sympathize! If it helps at all, I came into my current job feeling absolutely certain someone would decide they had made a massive mistake. I had no background in the industry and no experience. The blessing in all of it was that those around me kept assuring me I would get it, and be good at it. And they were right. If there is no one around you to reassure you, just keep reminding yourself how awesome you are and that you are capable of this. You have achieved so much in your life, I just know you can do this.
Oh, my. I am the queen of not wanting change, so I feel for you. HOWEVER–I always find that, given a little while, whatever change has been thrust on me isn’t as bad as I first thought. So saying that, just sit back, close your eyes, take a deep breath, go to your happy place, and think good thoughts. Do this as often as you must and within a week you will be wondering why you were so afraid of the change. You’ll be fine, I know it. Take care, my dear.
It is TOTALLY normal to feel that way! Each day will get a bit better. Really, it will!
Danny:
Is it normal to get hysterical in the middle of the office, to the point where I ended up Crying Like A Bitch to my father…and then on top of it all, get my period so badly that every time I went to the bathroom it was like a Crime Scene? And have knots in my stomach all day long.
JSYK: Your Support Rules.
Valerie:
Oh thank you sweety. That did make me feel better
Mommy:
Me.
Random Chick:
Thats the thing. I feel like I have worked so hard over the last 6 years, only to end up Right Back Where I Started. Living @ home with the parents & doing CSR work is exactly what I was doing 5 years ago. I am not happy with where I am in my life.
Terri:
I am awesome. But I am not a FAN of my new job title or position. While its only temporary, I dont know if I can last 6 months!!
CMK:
Yeah, Im sure it will, but today was one of the hardest work days Of My Life.
Barbara:
I really fucking hope so.
I hate that feeling! I’m sure you feel lost right now, but maybe something wonderful and good will come from this. That’s when change can be so exciting! Hang in there!
dr. goode! he’s my doc!!!
gotta tell ya.
lots of people are out there making powerful awful mistakes. and life goes on. it will be fine. if you were an expert at each new thing, you would be vastly overqualified to do anything.
you.
are gonna.
make mistakes.
because you’re human.
and it’s okay.
good bob. i made 15 mistakes today! i cost my company 1.4 billion dollars! fortuantely, this was only about £20, so it went down alright.
Should we start writing letters to your boss demaninf you go back to your old position and comfy desk chair? I’ll do it. I really will!!!
Momo:
This is just so frustrating. I feel like I am starting back at the beginning of my career and I don’t like it one bit!
HollyDolly:
Thats true..and I would take a lot of pressure off of myself if I can remember that when I return to the office tomorrow.
Michael C:
Oh sweety, Thank You. I know you would. I don’t have a choice or a say in this matter for right now. But, with friends like you to get me through this at least I can count on some laughs.
Awwww my friend…that stinks! I’m so sorry. If you want find another girl who doesn’t like change as well — you’ve found here right HERE.
I’ve been at the same place for 7 years and I don’t see myself TRYING to leave on my own. I keep saying the only way I will leave is if they carry me out the door with all of my things. A lot of changes are going on at my work and I’m scared so you know I relate on so many levels… I’m waiting to hear my fate tomorrow when I meet with my boss that is leaving. 🙁 I may be working at the CVS across the street from your house soon…
I know you’re a smart, tough cookie and I know you’ll be fine. You will. I promise you that. You’ll be a wiz at this job in no time!
Listen to your buddy CBG on this one…maybe the change is a good thing and meant to happen (but at the same time I’m writing that line to you…you know…in my head…I’m like…hmmm…if someone was saying this to me I wouldn’t believe them but I’m saying it to you anyway because maybe you will believe us!)
No more tears please. There have been enough tears to go around recently and I can fathom the idea of you upset too. I think we need a break from sadness!
PS:I love the part of the ad that has the guy with the gun that says “I no longer shoot my co-workers!”
After reading some of the comments/answers I wonder if this misery you are curently feeling is really about the change in position or the feeling that you’ve regressed in some way…
Maybe that’s the misery you are feeling…and if it is, maybe the knowledge that this IS temporary and that you have secured a good future for yourself and your son by becoming a productive, headstrong woman will console you. One day at a time, sweetie. Love ya’
Breathe:
CBG is totally right…to some degree, but SOMEGIRL is dead on accurate about saying “feeling that you’ve regressed in some way…”
Thats what is really bothering me. And the fact that I hate change so much I would never look for another job, and being forced o do another job is crushing my soul.
That would be hysterical if we ended up working at CVS together!!
(hahahahah)
My favorite part of the AD is “brought to you by the same makes of Damnitol
xxoo
Anna:
Yes. yes. YES! YES!
Thank you for finding the right words to accurately describe how I feel.
I love you back!
🙂
I think change is hard for most people. But I’m sure you’ll get comfortable and everything will work out. Hang in chicky.
Wow!
I walked into the 12:00 meeting and the first thing I heard was “CHANGE”. Oh how we love it…….NOOOOOOT!!!!
At least you still have one (a job) as I do not.
I am completely overwhelmed with the option of up and moving to P.R. and it’s more a reality than a thought.
Ahhhh Change…….How refreshing…
I love it !
NOOOOOOOT!!!!
Knots in my stomach is what I got.
P.s. I’m feelin ya !
love you!
Olly
I could handle the new job and the new people, but not the new desk. Absolutely not, no way, no how.
Shoot your boss in the face!
On second thought, maybe you should just steal the coffee maker from your old floor?
Mrs Schmitty:
Im trying!
Olly;
Um. Wow. I had no idea you were currently unemployed. I think a BIG MOVE might be GOOD FOR YOU
AngryMan;
ha ha ha ha
oh I sooooooooooo needed THAT!
Thank you
If there’s anyone who understands how you feel, its me. I’ve changed work environments – albeit of my own choice – far too many times over the last few years. The absolute worst thing about it is navigating the new personalities, and environmental protocol. What I have discovered is that – like Mother Hen says – the less I react to what is around me the better. When I’m unhappy or afraid to begin with, I will always magnify situations to be far worse than they actually are. Breathe. Sounds corny, but keep whatever makes you feel grounded within eyesight (a pic of JCH perhaps?).
Remember that you have support just a few floors away. Maybe have your old work buddies take turns coming up to your new area so you can have a sense of the familiar to make you feel more at home in the new.
…and remember this, Meleah: You have accomplished far more in your life thus far than most anyone you will come into contact with in either department. This situation is temporary. AND I think you know more than you give yourself credit for. Seriously, you’ve come such a long way in the last six years from the girl who had never typed a letter – remember? Sometimes we have to remind ourselves of how far we’ve come.
Finally, in what has now become a novel of a comment (I’ve been doing that a lot lately for some reason), I’ve noticed in my life that the shifts in my path always lead to somewhere worth arriving. Whether it be a new friendship, inspiration for your writing, a new professional direction of your own choosing…whatever. Anticipate that. Focus on that. Know in your heart that there is some method to this madness and sit back and allow it to arrive. You might be pleasantly surprised! xoxoxoxo
Unwanted change sucks Meleah! But I always think it’s for a reason yet not revealed. Other times it just sucks. I send my virtual hug.
HollyGL:
But you see, I do remember when I couldn’t even type a letter or send a fax, (I think I am going to REPOST that next…in light of your mentioning it and all.)
But, thats what is so upsetting, I feel like I am going in reverse. I feel like I have been demoted being sent back to the very department I got away from…
Plus living back home with Mom & Dad? Its like I’ve gone back in time to where I was in my life 6 years ago. And I don’t like it. At All.
If anyone GETS what I am talking about its YOU. I know that for sure.
“I’ve changed work environments – albeit of my own choice”
Thats another thing driving me mad.
I dont feel like any of this has been MY CHOICE, its all been due to circumstance.
“I’ve noticed in my life that the shifts in my path always lead to somewhere worth arriving. Whether it be a new friendship, inspiration for your writing, a new professional direction of your own choosing…whatever. Anticipate that”
OKAY. OKAY. That helps.
PS: You can always leave me a novel length comment.
xxoo
xxoo
xxoo
Rolando:
Thank you. That means a lot to me.
🙂
Ugh, I know what you mean. I used to love change when I was younger, now that I’m an old fart, lol … I don’t like it as much. The worst part is the feeling of not being control, that’s frustrating. Hang in there, you’ll manage, I’m sure of that 🙂
Rolando? !!
Meleah, I was at a job for over a decade when it suddenly was bought out and torn to pieces. There I was middle aged, unemployed, and worried. After moving to a new company I have still been missing the old one …. and can’t believe I used to complain about it.
I think you will adjust fine, especially because you did not have to find a new company altogether. I do understand being like a fish out of water, though. Give this some time before it bothers you too much 😉
Maybe you can bring the old coffee machine over to the new location! (wink)
Wishing you better days ahead – take care Meleah
Drowsey:
Thanks honey. I am trying to hang in there and be positive. But I HATE change! Can you imagine how set in my ways I will be when I am 65-80 if I am like this now?
*shudder*
Speedy:
Exactly like a Fish Out Of Water. and suffocating from lack of oxygen, or privacy. My ‘new’ floor, ‘new’ desk and ‘new’ cubical do not leave me with any ‘alone’ time either.
Now I am surrounded by people ALL THE TIME at work and at home. For some one who LIKES being alone I am ready to climb out of my skin, from too much interaction with Other People.
But, you are right at least I dont have to look for a whole NEW JOB all together. At least not yet.
I understand, Sweetie. The only reason I wanted to mention the letter writing thing – a place where all of us in any sort of a corporate environment have been – was to illustrate how much you’ve learned. The feeling of lack of control over something like your career direction is horrible. You haven’t regressed because you have so much more experience than when you were there last. As far as the new desk, I TOTALLY understand. I have the exact same arrangement, and I feel like I’m “on” 200% from the moment I get there until I leave. That in and of itself is exhausting.
Unexpected and unwanted change sucks. There are no two ways about it. See how it goes for awhile, and – worst case scenario – you can update your Monster profile and see what’s doin’ elsewhere. Just out of curiosity. 🙂 Sometimes change of your own making is just what the doctor ordered.
As far as living at home, that’s a temporary situation too. Just focus on taking care of what you need to to get on your feet again, and know that you will. xoxo
on a positive note,, i can tell you,, you will learn more about your company, and the ins and outs of the insurance business in six months in customer service than you ever did in six years behind a desk in any other department.. whee ever you go after you do this temporary stint,, you will be alot more fluent,, and informed than you ever believed you would be..
i know change is scary,, but who knows what new adventures may be made available to you with a whole new set of co workers???????
Even that had me laughing. I know I should take that pill along with quite a few people in the office. Then again… The entertainment in the office will decrease and that will be no fun.
I’m going to be honest with you here… You’re building this up to be something more than it actually is. Not saying that your feeling aren’t genuine. However, I feel you should just fall back and breathe. Take it in and relax. Take it step by step. You can do it. They placed you there because they believe in you. They aren’t looking for you to mess up so you are one step closer to success. Learn from the situation and move forward.
What I do know is the customer service isn’t all that hard as long as you like people. You are a people person (from what I can tell from this side of the screen). As long as you know the info to correct the given situation then you are set.
I wish you well on your new path and hope that it all works out for the best. You’ll be fine. Just take it easy.
I am so with you on this topic. I hate change also. BUT, we have all survived it, like it or not, and you will too. I say ease into it. Just greet people with a simple hello, and gradually get to know them. You’re better off starting out on your own, so you can concentrate on learning the aspects of your new position. Good Luck and we’re all behind you!!
To come back from vacation to a job change is very stressful. But, try to think of it this way: you still have a job and you will gain experience in another area. It is a development opportunity and may help you advance in your career in the future.
Still, I know it sucks and is scary. Big hugs to you.
It is only temporary and a very normal feeling.
This too shall pass 🙂
Tell your Mom thanks for the laugh!
I hate that you are crying and sad. That makes me sad.
Life is all about changes… constant and sometimes not so constant.
Work, love, kids, family… plenty of crap to change minute by minute.
Sick joke is that once you get used to the changes, they change again.
Cheer up, Sunshine.
HolyGL:
I cannot tell you how much your suport means to me. Your words make so much sense to me, and have TRULY made me feel better. I sincerely LOVE you from the bottom of my heart.
Paisley:
Yes. This will certainly be a learning experience. That’s for sure…and I will probably discover a new found respect for these ladies, in this department.
Urban:
I definitely need to calm down, step back, breathe and ease myself into this. The Drama Queen that lives inside of me has taken this to a whole new level and I’ve been mind-fucking myself for a few days now.
At least that AD is making me laugh.
Chef Mom:
Thank you for your support. It’s nice to know I have friends like you backing me all the way.
Ingrid:
I’ll take all the hugs in the world right now. Thank you.
xxoo
Dawn:
I hope it passes sooner than later
Diva:
Well. I am not crying today. But I am still very much having a hard time adjusting.
Hey Sweetie, I too don’t like change at first, but then I just embrace it and make the best out of it. Once you accept thats the way it is, go balls to the wall and make it YOURS.
Oh and I’ve worked in the CS field for years and the best I can say is hang in there, remember that its not against you personally and even if you’re faking a smile, they can hear it in your voice. HUGS!
I’m sorry to hear you are not happy with your life right now. It sucks. I know. I’ve been there. I don’t think this will help but it might be something fun to do: I tagged you on my blog.
Hang in there, girl. Things will get better. :-X
XOXOXOXO
RC
Oh you go girl!!! They picked YOU for the position. YOU…yes thats right YOU. I wish someone would pick ME for a new job in a NEW company. lol
Maybe they are grooming you for a promotion across multiple departments? You’d be the Boss Lady!!!
Courtney:
Im a terrible ‘faker’ and I am not a fan of the General Public. These people are stupid!
Thanks for the hugs and the support!
Random Chick:
Yeay. I need a distraction. Tags are perfect for me right now!!
Dazd:
Yeah. I wish I was the Boss Lady. We’d be closed on Friday’s!
🙂
It is scary to be thrown into something new. I’m sure when the dust settles you will feel better about it.
Best of luck in your new surroundings.
Dearest Meleah, I am soooo sorry that you have returned to work to face these new conditions. I hate change because I don’t feel I am good enough. BUT I know you are gonna settle in and “Kick ass”!!! You have such a warm heart and smart mind, you are gonna be great at”customer service”, and with your amazing wit you will be able to turn any unhappy caller into a happy one.
From now on, I am going to make sure that when I wake up each morning, the first thing I am going to do is send you loads of good wishes. I live a long way away, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t care. I do! And I am gonna do everything I can in my own little way to make sure that you are okay 🙂
Big hugs from a guy that really cares,
Graham x
I agree with Dazd and if ANYONE can adapt and thrive and do the best job ever, it is definitely you!! 🙂
“I definitely need to calm down, step back, breathe and ease myself into this. The Drama Queen that lives inside of me has taken this to a whole new level and I’ve been mind-fucking myself for a few days now.”
Umm.. yeah!!!!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Hammer:
Thanks dood.
Graham:
“I don’t feel I am good enough.” Yep. Thats about it in a nutshell.
Thank you my dear friend for being so sweet and kind to me.
ChelleB:
Aw. Thank you.
Mommy:
I know. I know.
The feeling is mutual. xoxo
Oh man. I hate to hear you so down. Aren’t work drama’s the worst kind? I think we all spend more time at work than any other place and to have a world we know so well be shaken up is just unfamilar and so unwanted. I can’t help but think of the old fashioned saying “change is good”. YUCK…good for WHO?! Well, you’re doing all you can at the moment…don’t give the totally valid negative thoughts about this change too much energy. Keep that chin up and plow it out girl…u can, will and are doing it! Oh…and most importantly don’t let them see you sweat. 🙂
Heather
One Shot Beyond Photography & A little More>
I came home from PR thurs. nite and was let go over the phone Friday morning.
Good times!!!
THANX!
HollyGL;
xxoo xxoo xxoo
xxoo xxoo xxoo
Heather:
I loathe this kind of stress / drama.
I like the Dont Let Them See You Sweat attitude.
Ill try that one Tomorrow!
Olly:
No Fucking Way.
Geez Us.
I am FLOORED.
I am totally with you on this. I hate change, and unexpected change is the worse and will really throw me for a loop. I do agree that the way to deal with it is to try to step back and breathe, and take it one day at a time, but for me, the reaction you’re having would be totally normal.
I also need to tell you that I’ve tagged you, but don’t feel obliged. I just needed an easy post, that’s my excuse!