I work in a hybrid role and avoid going into the office as much as possible, as when I'm there I really struggle to concentrate. It's a huge open plan office, I think there's around 300 desks in total.
All around me I can hear colleagues talking and on Teams calls (fair enough), but I really struggle to concentrate on my work as I can't help but hear their conversations. I was in a call and the colleagues around me were so loud I was told to mute myself as they could be heard on the call.
I also really struggle just being around others whilst working, as I worry people are watching me on my screen. My manager was sat behind me and I felt self-conscious like she might be watching me spend ages on something.
Yesterday I just felt so frustrated in the office as I could not concentrate. I decided to stay later so I could finish up my work in peace, but an hour later there were still loads of colleagues just milling around chatting (fair enough), then I thought I'd just go to the coffee shop and work there but it was closed, then I thought I'd work on the train but there were delays and it was busy so I didn't get a seat.
I do have anxiety for context, and this is my first office job so I don't have any experience of pre-COVID when everyone was in the office 5 days a week, so I'm probably spoilt from the luxury of working from home. I try and make accommodations for myself, like I always book a seat near the window and/or in the corner, and I try and plan my workload so that I have easier tasks for days when I'm in the office, but AIBU to still struggle and wonder if anyone else experiences the same issue, or if anyone has any advice?