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Original poster

Sudden anxiety over new job

13 replies

dollygray2 · 22/03/2026 08:20

Started new job two weeks ago. Most senior leader in the organisation. Organisation in a mess- no paperwork done in a year, poor relationships within etc.
everyone has been really positive and welcoming and up for change.
why do I feel ill at the thought of going back? Cant sleep, sore stomach, feel nervous all the time and very teary.
Never been able not to rationalise before which is scaring me. it’s only been two weeks and getting lots of positive feedback. What is wrong with me?

OP posts:
herbetta · 22/03/2026 08:24

What age are you? Peri/Menopause??

Original poster
dollygray2 · 22/03/2026 09:42

Forty two nearly forty three. Just never been like this at all.

OP posts:
decorationday · 22/03/2026 20:26

Have you had this level of responsibility before? Do you have experience in turning around businesses?

Even if you have, it's a lot to take on and I think it would be normal to be feeling apprehensive and for that stress/worry to be manifesting physically.

Especially if you didn't know this was the situation you would be faced with.

Mintearo7 · 22/03/2026 20:29

Could you seek a mentor or coach in your industry who has been in a similar position?

Original poster
dollygray2 · 22/03/2026 22:04

Mintearo7 · 22/03/2026 20:29

Could you seek a mentor or coach in your industry who has been in a similar position?

I am getting one organised thank you. I had forgotten about that.

OP posts:
Original poster
dollygray2 · 22/03/2026 22:07

decorationday · 22/03/2026 20:26

Have you had this level of responsibility before? Do you have experience in turning around businesses?

Even if you have, it's a lot to take on and I think it would be normal to be feeling apprehensive and for that stress/worry to be manifesting physically.

Especially if you didn't know this was the situation you would be faced with.

I have experience of second in charge and took on lot of the full position and covered for a couple of months in my previous post. Different when ever decision falls on me now- I knew this would be the case. I knew it was a shambles but just a lot to get my head round. At least I know what needs done and cant actually make it worse!

OP posts:
BrinkWomanship · 22/03/2026 23:02

Is it the scale or speed of the challenge that seems daunting? Have you determined and communicated key priorities and are able to let other things languish for a while? Steady as she goes, and all that!

HitMePlease34 · 22/03/2026 23:07

I second perimopause. I have an interview coming up and have been worrying about it for a year (age 44). In the old days I loved an interview, I was carefree and enjoyed the process. Now I have spent months worrying and overthinking. I started HRT to see if that helps.

Original poster
dollygray2 · 23/03/2026 06:01

BrinkWomanship · 22/03/2026 23:02

Is it the scale or speed of the challenge that seems daunting? Have you determined and communicated key priorities and are able to let other things languish for a while? Steady as she goes, and all that!

I think it’s the whole over all responsibility and waiting on something going wrong. I know situations will arise I need to deal with but before I would be like “worry about it when it happens”.

OP posts:
Original poster
dollygray2 · 23/03/2026 06:02

HitMePlease34 · 22/03/2026 23:07

I second perimopause. I have an interview coming up and have been worrying about it for a year (age 44). In the old days I loved an interview, I was carefree and enjoyed the process. Now I have spent months worrying and overthinking. I started HRT to see if that helps.

Im beginning to think that. I just don’t feel in control of myself. It’s awful to feel like this

OP posts:
BrinkWomanship · 23/03/2026 06:21

I agree that it could be peri. I’m sorry. It’s rubbish. Very destabilising when you’re so very capable and then begin to doubt yourself. Start looking at some supplements you can take to help.

shuffleofftobuffalo · 23/03/2026 07:06

Rather than blaming your hormones have a think about the situation you’re in. “Most senior leader” stands out. I used to do a lot of work with a CEO who had a similar sounding challenge in terms of the org being a bit of a shitshow (I was more junior). The phrase “it’s lonely at the top” used to run through my mind all the time.

ultimately it’s all down to you as the most senior - that’s really daunting. I’d be seeking out a mentor or other kind of support.

decorationday · 23/03/2026 12:39

shuffleofftobuffalo · 23/03/2026 07:06

Rather than blaming your hormones have a think about the situation you’re in. “Most senior leader” stands out. I used to do a lot of work with a CEO who had a similar sounding challenge in terms of the org being a bit of a shitshow (I was more junior). The phrase “it’s lonely at the top” used to run through my mind all the time.

ultimately it’s all down to you as the most senior - that’s really daunting. I’d be seeking out a mentor or other kind of support.

I agree with this. It seems like a natural response to a new and challenging situation that you're still adjusting to.

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