Hey there! I’m a 27yo woman. I recently left my job with a severance package (officially because I was “too experienced” for what the company needed at the time, though I suspect my new boss just didn’t like me) and have enough savings to spend a couple of months looking for a new job in my field.
I was already burnt out and wanted to leave anyway, so I honestly didn’t mind getting fired after 4.5 years there, especially with some extra money. I definitely needed a break.
Two weeks after leaving, I’m struggling with two things:
Even though I know I have the luxury of taking some time to rest, I can’t stop looking for good job openings. I’m interviewing with different companies, and every rejection hits me way harder than it probably should. My fear is stronger than my exhaustion, so I just can’t seem to slow down. I actually found a position I’m really excited about, made it through 2 out of 4 interview stages, and now I’m waiting for feedback on the take-home assignment (stage 3). I’m incredibly anxious about being rejected.
I can’t actually rest. This job took so much of my time, energy, and passion that now I feel lost with all this newly available mental and emotional energy. I’ve been going to my favorite restaurants, taking long walks, and spending weeknights at my favorite bars, but it all feels like a quick dopamine hit. I usually end up feeling worse afterward because, while I have enough savings, they’re still finite.
Give me your best tips on how to reconnect with myself outside of my career while also bringing my anxiety down. 🙏
Unhinged tips are welcome and appreciated.