To feel useless

[vampire0]

I was made redundant a few months ago. It was a shock as I performed very well, and a really hard experience as I was the only one to go. I felt so low I could barely function for a while and it's made me really question myself.

Fortunately I found a new job quickly, although in a slightly different industry. But I can't help but feel low after the redundancy, it's really affected my confidence. So much so, that one of the managers has already had a word with me to ask if I'm okay as I seem quite closed off.

I'm really trying, but I think what's happened has affected me and people are picking up a vibe. I'm worried I'm going to lose this job too, I feel completely useless after the redundancy. I don't know what to do. Should I explain this to my current job if they speak to me again? I feel ashamed.

If this were me, I'd see my GP asap, and find out if its partly depression. Ask for for cognitive behaviour therapy as well. See if that helps.
You're in a vicious cycle of not wanting to get involved in case you lose your job, then getting feedback that they are worried that you aren't getting involved. It will be possible to find a way to break out of that loop but its sometimes easier if you get it from someone who is impartial. You can talk to them openly without worrying if its going to affect your job.

Redundancies are about jobs - the job is redundant, not the person. Its a very simplistic approach I know, and I really do empathise, having ben in a redundancy situation my self. But you have a new job, transferable skills, the ability to perform , so I wouldn't be too hard on yourself.

Sorry to hear about the redundancy but I'm glad you got a new job so soon. A similar thing happened to me a few years ago and it really knocked my confidence. I suffer from anxiety at the best of times so I'm always worried it's going to happen again.

Speaking with your current employer is a good idea. I'm assuming they know you were previously maid redundant but they maybe don't understand how you are feeling. It might open up a conversation where they can start giving you a bit more feedback and support when you need it.

NewYear has hit the nail on the head. It is simplistic to see it that way but so true.
Redundancy has nothing to do with your worth and ability. You got your new job based on your skills and their belief you can do the job. Now you have to believe it. Give it your best shot and you might start to enjoy it. Sorry you've been through such a rough time.

Redundancy is shit but you need to remember that it's rarely personal. I was made redundant in 2009 about 3 months after returning from Mat leave. I coped well because I'd seen my df made redundant twice in my childhood and both times he ended up with a better job.

I found a job, any job and found a way to enjoy it, develop new skills and enjoy colleagues. After 3 years (1 year maternity) I found myself applying for my dream job. I've been there 4 years and still love it.

Redundancy is an opportunity to force yourself into an uncomfortable position that often results in a better position in the long term.

It's okay to feel low but deep breaths and one step in front of the other is the starting point. I also listened to Alexandra Berk's Breathe Slow lots and lots. Good luck op!

It’s easier said than done, but redundancy is often about position and role rather than the person. It’s not a reflection on you as a human being, and you are more than how you perform at your job.

I have been redundant and then struggled to find a new role and it made me massively low. I felt like I’d never get a job, always just missing out at the final interview stage.

But you have a job! You clearly wowed them at interview and they saw you as the best candidate. You have already picked yourself up and got back on the horse, well done!

It’s simpler to say I know but try abs concentrate on your strengths. Do your best and remember you got this job for a reason.

I can’t say you’ll never be made redundant again as the economy is wobbly and we never know what will happen, but for now concentrate on this new opportunity and big yourself up. You deserve this.

Redundancy is shit, and I say this as somebody who has had the bad luck to find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time twice in the past six years.

You're right, it DOES knock your confidence, but as others have said, you have to rise above it, and remember that positions are made redundant, not people.

I've just started a new job, and my previous experience has made me very canny: I'm no longer the 'people-pleaser' I once was, because it's not actually about me. I see myself as operating as efficiently as I can, and have already won a couple of plaudits by prioritising my tasks carefully to ensure they reflect directly on my role, as opposed to me. When (if) the bean-counters come in, they don't see me, they see what I contribute.

Basically, fake it 'til you make it. If you practice being confident, eventually you'll BE confident.

In the words of RuPaul - good luck, and DON'T f*ck it up.