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Public loss of confidence
I am 49 and work in local government and feel stuck. I have been treading water in my career for the last year to the point where my confidence has drained away.Recently I decided not to apply for a promotion post which would have paid well and given me more challenge - because I was unsure if I was up to the task. I seem to be trapped now between feeling stale and de-motivated in my current job, but feeling anxious about new opportunities - particularly those that involve managing more people. Any suggestions on how I break out of this situation?
Paul.
Comments
You need time out of an environment that is grinding you down; so, if you have any leave left take it and use it to reflect on where you are - career wise - and what is it you want, to or would like to do.
If you decide that your current job is no longer for you, take positive steps in seeking to find a new employer. If you decide to remain where you are, hopefully the period of reflection would have allowed you to refocus and remotivate you enough to apply for future roles.
Good Luck
Nicca - November 14, 2007 11:48 AM
Do not leave your current job, whatever you decide, until you have secured another.
Catriona - November 21, 2007 4:13 PM
Think about investing in hypnosis to boost your confidence and eliminate negative perspectives. If you want promotion do it internally... they know you whereas if they recruit an outsider then the risk is greater that they do not live up to expectations or fit in.
But think very carefully about the value of a 'guaranteed' job with a state pension - the grass is always greener on the other side!
Changing jobs at 49 is HARD because all the recruiters are very age biased once you hit 50 as are employers!
Believe me I have an outstanding CV, plenty of confidence, am well presented and presentable, dynamic, hard working with excellent references, and great commendations from colleagues (on LinkedIn.com) but nevertheless struggling to find a job.
Often not even having my CV read (I know because I phone them and ask if they have read it)or passed forward to the hirer. Even then I get the 'you are too big for the job' phrase aka too old or 'too experienced' aka too old.
You recognise your lack of confidence is a weakness so work on it. Get out and mix with people at a club, do charity work etc.
All the best!
Tymothy - December 14, 2007 2:14 PM