Anxiety over work

[familydilema]

I'm 58 and self employed but for the last 5 years have mainly worked for one organisation so know the job very well. My contract ends in July and I'm dreading trying to find new work. I don't feel sharp,I'm lacking in confidence in getting back out there, networking and all the usual pitching that I'll have to do. There's quite a bit of ageism in the sector I work in. I've had a stressful last few months with my mum passing away and having a skin cancer diagnosis. Has anyone found a life coach useful? I need to feel more positive to approach the change in work

Or maybe I need some counselling

Is getting new contract as a freelancer in your sector really what you want to do? Are there any other work options? I'd really dig into whether it's a confidence issue you'd like to overcome, or whether there are other barriers putting you off, as a first step.

Do you have any supportive professional contacts you could talk through options with, or any kind of mentor?

Sorry, meaning considering everything you've been through recently as well as not feeling on top form, are there any less taxing options?

Thanks for your replying and interesting questions. I did have a mentor a few years back but it didn't really work out. I need to carve out some time to think about what I want to do. I have some friends who freelance as well - will pick their brains

Maybe spend some time doing some 'self-talk ' where you list all the positives about yourself, including your experience and success at work.

Depending on what work you do, could you take on very short term contracts to get your confidence back?

I know a lot of people who freelance but their jobs can be as short as a couple of weeks or a month. Or they have lots of clients who they juggle at a low level, but each client doesn't take all of their time.

5 years is quite unusual.

TBH I think most people, freelance or not, are anxious when starting a new job but within a short time they find their feet and everything's fine.