Confidence or lack of…..

[Pieandchips83]

Hi,
just looking for some perspective really 😊

i returned to work after two maternity leaves. Same employer, part time. On the second return, I was ambushed on the day I returned with a new structure and had to take a new role. Same Ts and Cs.
found the new role challenging and overwhelming. Coupled with the fact that most of the team went on long term sick and maternity. I was left with little support.

I tried to carry on as best I could, with various trips to the Drs to get medication to cope. They signed me off but I felt my position was in jeopardy if I took that time.

fast forward 12 months and I have just had a review. New manager, new structure. In the meeting she told me I should have confidence, but I don’t. She also thinks I lack motivation.

i know I doubt my technical ability in the role that I am qualified to do. Probably as a result of 18 months in a really difficult environment with two small children at home. Early 40s.

Basically, should I take these comments as a red flag to search for another role? I dont know whether I am just overthinking it or if it’s something to worry about.

thanks for reading 😊

Sounds like she’s saying you have every reason to be confident? Perhaps to motivate you?

I think a lack of self-belief can really impact the way you are perceived. You have the qualifications, and now you need to work on your self-confidence. After 12 months I assume you feel a bit more comfortable in the role than you did at the outset? Well done for navigating a new role with young kids at home, not easy at all.

Would you enjoy the work if you didn’t lack self confidence? That is the key thing, if you really don’t like your work then perhaps it’s time to look for a new role. Otherwise, can you find ways to boost your self esteem?

I think it's a prompt to believe more in yourself! When I got back from mat leave I was second guessing everything I did, and running loads past my boss that I really didn't need to be. A waste of time for both of us really as normally I was right on the money the first time!

Once you believe you're good in the role, your motivation will probably naturally rise too.

In the meeting she told me I should have confidence, but I don’t. She also thinks I lack motivation.
i know I doubt my technical ability in the role that I am qualified to do.
Basically, should I take these comments as a red flag to search for another role?

No absolutely not! Take them as a flag that you can totally do the job - you just need to get your mojo back

A red flag would her doubting your technical ability. Saying you lack confidence and motivation is saying she thinks you DO have the technical ability but the lack of belief in yourself which you yourself acknowledge is holding you back at work.

Thanks so much for these replies 😊