How to stop obsessing over job interview while waiting to hear

[DesiccatedCoconut]

I've been through the wringer with the euphemistically named "early career academia" - a hamster wheel of hourly paid, poorly paid teaching in the humanities on a semester-to-semester basis with no security, topped up by freelance proofreading and editing, which AI has now decimated. I have been essentially working seven days a week and all waking hours for about six years, and I decided enough was enough in the last few months.

I found such comfort in very dark times in a particular crafting hobby, and a few weeks ago, a sales-assistant role came up in a shop pertaining to this hobby. It's a gold-standard sort of shop that's won lots of awards, has a huge Instagram following, and a beautiful, classy yet warm vibe. I interviewed for the role the other day and am waiting to hear. I wasn't delighted with my interview - I struggled to give specific examples of customer service, as I have around 12 years experience in retail and customer service but from around 15 years ago. I think I did okay otherwise - I was able to give more general examples. I think they said there are six candidates, and I should hear next week.

I'm wondering whether it was a mistake applying to something so dear to my heart. I've had no success in academia, and life in general isn't great at the moment for numerous personal reasons. I feel I've been rejected by all the things I love. I'm an absolute wreck waiting to hear about the interview and quite anxious about how I'll handle it if I don't get the job - which I've basically convinced myself I won't.

How do people cope with the agonizing limbo and emotional vulnerability? Is this normal?

Applying for jobs is emotionally draining! While you wait to hear you should be thinking about what you can do to support yourself during this tough time you’re having. Getting a better job will be one thing (it doesn’t have to be this job and if it’s not, then what might you do to move towards your dream career?)

what else in your life can shift - evening just a little - to make things a bit easier.

This job can’t fix all your problems, only you can do that, so start making a plan and if you get the job great, if not then you still have a plan with concrete next steps.

Thanks so much for responding ❤You're absolutely right, and I do need some perspective. I tend to overthink things and become emotionally invested in things, but of course, getting this job wouldn't solve everything and other plans are needed.

Thanks again.