Starting new job, and am having a crisis of confidence!

[SupremeCommanderServalan]

So I am due to start a new job next week, and I am dreading it. I'm really not sure about it really and have convinced myself that I am going to hate it/not understand it/look a complete tit. My main issues that are eating away at me are that I'm substantially older than what I have seen of the other staff, and, I suspect, one of the only women.

Despite having prepped myself by going to see Barbie, I'm not sure that I am up for a challenging environment, or to be seen as 'mum'.

What can I do to bring some self confidence along with my notebook and pen?

I know how you feel. I am starting a new job soon and feel way out of my comfort zone.
I keep telling myself that they thought I was the right person when they offered me the job.

The new girl at work recently came to me and said that she feels everyone is secretly judging her.
One of the reasons being her age.
I was so shocked! I know that no-one would be judging her at all, it's a very nice workplace actually.
She confided that she had built the idea up in her head because she has anxiety.
Try to get out of your head and go in there with an open mind.

You slightly lost me at using the Barbie film as new job preparation, but to each their own.

It is pretty normal to feel nervous about a new job. Why did you apply and accept it originally? Maybe remind yourself of that and use it to displace some of the negative thoughts.

Yes, am massively overthinking it. I realise it's just a job (and not a life and death type of role), but I feel worse about approaching this first day than that of my first job. I think as I have got older I have lost so much of that innate confidence.

I so wish I could retire!

How long is it since your last first day in a new job?

Nearly 20 years. I went in on a temp contract to a role that I was over qualified for. I think the fact that I was ambivalent about it, and confident about my abilities, mean that I felt in control then. Unfortunately I have been somewhat ground down in the intervening period.

No wonder you're feeling this way.

As pp say, they offered you the job for a reason.

Is there anything in particular about this role that you were looking forward to?

I don't get barbie matters either...

An older user uses the toilet icon icon in her comfort breaks post instead of saying this, who seems to get liked. Managed to have two days off during training. no problemo.

@SupremeCommanderServalan - I would bet a pound to a penny you will be fine. I understand being nervous. I reckon it would be unusual not to be. All I can suggest is they have hired you - so they think you will be OK. It may be below other jobs you have had but - it is the job you have.

I really wish you well & I hope It all works out for you

basilisk x

Thanks for all the responses. I have wound myself up by so badly overthinking things. I just need to get a massive grip and get through day one, and then take it from there.

There's every chance you will absolutely love it there. Be excited!