Want to work but low self-esteem. Tips?

[Smumto2]

Hi Everyone, due to me having a MH disorder plus anxiety on top of that, I am finding it very hard to pluck up the courage to go out to work. I would love a part-time job now my mood is stable and I am more motivated. The only problem is that irrational thoughts kick in, telling me I am not good enough and I won't be able to do it and will let people down. I want to work more than anything else in the world. My partner works and is supportive with whatever decision I make.

How can I step out of my comfort zone and just go for it without crumbling at the 1st hurdle? x

Good luck OP, all credit to you for wanting to do it. Do you have access to any schemes for support through the job centre/DWP? There are various around the country supporting people with eg mental health difficulties back to work.
Take it slowly and set reasonable goals and remember those are simply horrible negative thoughts, not necessarily true.
Melanie Fennell's excellent 'overcoming low self esteem' book might help as well?

In the same position as you, OP.

It's hard isn't it, because you feel ready, but then that voice of doubt creeps in and you almost feel back to square one.

I've been out of work for 11 years! I'm only 33, but my MH has been very much an issue for as long as I can remember.

I'm desperate to get out there and start a new chapter. I hate being completely dependent on someone else.

The problem is, at the time we think that we're protecting our MH by not working, but it's actually the opposite, then we realise this, want to work, then doubt our ability because of the MH and so it goes round and round in a very unproductive circle.

Have you started sending out CVs?

Thank you for replying YouCantCallMeBetty, I will look into Schemes as a first step. I am so nervous, but need to do this

Istoletherainbow, I couldn't agree with you more hun. I am the same.. 33 in Sept and I havn't worked in such a long time. No I havn't sent out any CV's as of yet. To be honest I need to make a new one.. I am worried there won't be enough on there and it will look rubbish.

Yes, I think the same. I started applying for jobs about a month a go and so far have had one call back....for a job I applied for by mistake

That said, it's still early days and it's so competitive out there. Baby steps. At least we're stepping in the right direction!

Sorry, OP- I hope I didn't hijack\kill the thread

I would say most people are far less confident than they seem. Nearly everyone I know (including myself) has similar self-doubts, at least occasionally. It's even got a name: 'impostor syndrome'.

If you met me you'd see a confident woman in her late 30s who regularly presents to and advises senior executives, manages large budgets and leads teams of professionals. I KNOW that I am capable and experienced, but a tiny voice in my head always says 'I wonder when they'll find out that you have absolutely no clue what you're doing'

I've learned to just ignore it and move on with what I'm doing. It's just rubbish that my brain produces. On the plus side it keeps me on my toes...

Try and just acknowledge these doubts as something pretty common but then just keep them in the background. It really helps.

contact me please, i am an anxiety sufferer and may have a part time, working mainly from home job. if interested in the job below just send me a message for more details.
Working on your own too so no stress over having to see people...

Customer Service Line Operative

Up and coming contract distribution business looking for an individual to join our team, Working Mainly from home with only 2-4 hours required in an office based in Sunbury, Weekend and evening Position working from Friday evening to Sunday night, Competitive Salary but to be discussed depending on skill set. This position would be great for someone needing flexibility.

Requirements:

1. Computer literate,
2. IT Skills a must,
3. Great communication skills,
4. Customer Service to a high standard,
5. Proficient with a mobile/handheld device,
6. A quick-thinking individual,

Duties will include:

• Answering all phone calls in a professional manner,
• Making decisions based on the information provided,
• Route checking of drivers,
• Organization of drivers if needed,
• Dealing with any issues that arise throughout the evening.