How long do you give a new job?

[Overwhelmedowl]

I’ve taken a new job internally which is a promotion. Same department but different team so a lot of what I’m doing is new. The projects I’m working on I’m finding really tough, very demanding, challenging people, all new terminology to learn so feel like it goes over my head and I feel completely out of my depth. Most of all I hate the projects I’m working on. They’re not enjoyable at all.

I’ve been in the role nearly weeks and feel like I’ve made a huge mistake and want to ask for my old job back. At the same time, I don’t think I’ve been truly happy for a while, I was feeling bored in my last role as I had done as much I felt I could as I was there a long time. The organisation is great with flexible working and I have a young family which keeps me there as it works for my personal life. I also can’t afford a pay cut as we’re trying to pay off debt. I feel trapped.

I took this role as was so keen for promotion while I was here, I’ve worked hard to get this opportunity and they know how much I wanted it so I feel embarrassed that I’m feeling too stretched. But I just feel so overwhelmed.

Is 5 weeks too early to tell if the role is for me? I feel sick everyday.

Life is short… however, it doesn’t sound like you don’t like the job or the people. If I may say so, it sounds like you’re nervous about change and learning something new. I just want to tell you that you’re 5 weeks in and nobody expects you to have it all sorted or solved for. Be kind to yourself and give yourself a chance.

Ask lots of questions, take time to meet your new stakeholders and give yourself a bit of time to see whether you can settle into your new promotion - congratulations by the way. In my experience, the feeling usually passes, and the feeling is akin to growth and challenging yourself.

Honestly, I think it takes 6 months to settle into a new job.