How to manage your anxiety when transitioning into a new role or career

Let’s start this post with a little bit of context. I’ve spent the last year or so trying to pivot into a new career; I’ve sought advice, done lots of research and even considered going back to studying. Earlier this year an opportunity came along to continue working in the sector I’m currently in, Public Health, but in a complete different field and department, which would also require learning new skills.

I attended the interview – petrified and not as prepared for the post as I should have been! but against all odds, got the job and secured a contract with a great team. Although this was the ideal scenario for me, I developed a lot of anxiety around the idea of transitioning into the unknown, especially since the role in question had been newly created, i.e. never worked by anyone before.

I know I’m not the only one who struggles with change, so in this post I’ll be sharing the steps that helped me overcome the fear and anxiety I was feeling, and helped me build confidence to take on this new challenge.

1. Research

Familiarise yourself with the basics of the new field you’re entering, its terminology and trends. This will boost your confidence and reduce anxiety about the unknown. Are there any books you can read, or podcasts you can listen to, to increase your knowledge? Get stuck in and immerse yourself in that new environment. You’ll thank yourself later for gaining all that know-how before starting the role.

2. Networking

Connect with other professionals in the field. Building a support network can provide valuable insights and a sense of community. LinkedIn and social media are great ways to meet like-minded professionals, people who are more experienced and can offer unique and valuable insight. Make use of it.

3. Skill Enhancement

Identify the key skills required for your new role and work on developing them. Online courses, workshops, and tutorials can be immensely helpful. Youtube is also full of free resources to learn a new craft or familiarise yourself with an industry. I actually spent hours and hours on YouTube, learning everything there is to know about my new role. And if you actually want to invest in yourself, use online learning platforms such as Udemy, Coursera or Skillshare are just some of the websites you can use.

4. Mentorship

If you can, find a mentor who has experience in the new field. They can offer guidance, share their experiences, and provide valuable advice. The great thing about having a mentor is that they will have probably gone through the exact same apprehensions and fears as you when they first started in their field. So not only can they offer valuable professional insight, you’re also likely to get someone who will understand the mental toll pivoting can have on someone.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Break down your tasks and objectives into smaller, achievable goals. This will make the transition feel more manageable and less overwhelming. Entering into a brand new career or just starting a new role is stressful enough as it is. Don’t stress yourself more by building unrealistic expectations of what you should achieve by a certain time. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Take it one step at a time.

6. Embrace Learning

Be open to learning from your mistakes and experiences. Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay to ask questions and seek help when needed. Don’t let imposter syndrome bring your confidence down – you are exactly where you belong and there’s a reason why you were chosen.

7. Visualisation and Positive Thinking

Visualize yourself succeeding in your new role. Practicing positive thinking and imagining positive outcomes can help reduce anxiety. Whether it’s positive affirmations every morning, or a vision board, whatever can help you visualise yourself as a successful and thriving asset in your new profession, do it.

8. Time Management

Organize your schedule to allocate time for learning, work, and relaxation. Balancing your time effectively can reduce stress. Remember that self-care during this transition period is also key – don’t neglect that aspect of starting over. It is literally the reset you need before and during this period – allocating time to it is very important.

9. Seek Professional Help

If your anxiety becomes overwhelming, consider talking to a mental health professional who can provide coping strategies and support.

10. Enjoy the transition.

This is actually a time for you to celebrate yourself, your achievements and how far you’ve come. It’s an exciting time and a new beginning. It’s also an opportunity to reinvent yourself, at least professionally speaking. Find joy in that, pat yourself on the back and embrace the new challenge.