Since February, I heard my CEO making negative remarks about me in front of my manager and producer during a recorded meeting. No one spoke up for me, which made me feel disheartened. Over time, I’ve started feeling increasingly anxious, even waking up in the middle of the night with worry.
I attempted to discuss this with my boss, mentioning that I heard what the CEO said in the recording. He brushed it off, telling me not to take it to heart. Since then, I’ve felt disconnected from my work, as if I’m just going through the motions without any real purpose. Starting each workday has become a struggle.
Recently, I made a significant mistake at work. I know it was wrong, but it felt like my mind was so exhausted that I couldn’t control my actions. My boss and HR found out, and I took full responsibility, apologizing for my actions.
Now, I’m leaving the company, but this entire experience has left me feeling deeply unsettled and unsure of myself. The mistake I made doesn’t align with my usual character, and I know it’s not typical for me. I’m just so worn out.
I wanted to ask if these feelings are normal or if I should consider seeking professional help to ensure this doesn’t affect my future career.
Hi @user1557,
It sounds like you’ve been through a challenging time at work, and it’s completely understandable that you’d feel disheartened and uncertain after everything you’ve experienced. Workplace criticism—especially when it comes from someone in a leadership role—can shake your confidence, and it’s natural for that to have an impact on how you’re feeling about yourself and your work right now.
You mentioned feeling disconnected, like you’re going through the motions without real purpose. This is a common reaction when our need for respect and acknowledgment isn’t met, especially in a place where we invest so much time and energy. Taking ownership of a mistake, as you did, takes courage, and it’s important to recognize that moments of self-doubt or exhaustion don’t define your abilities or worth.
If it feels right, you might consider a few ways to gently reconnect with yourself and manage these feelings as you move forward. Here are a few ideas to try, if they resonate with you:
- Setting Boundaries for Self-Care: Work stress can easily follow us home, so you might find it helpful to set a small daily ritual that separates your work time from your personal time. This could be anything—like a short walk, meditation, or even a calming playlist—that signals to your mind that the workday is over.
- Reflecting on What Makes You Feel Valued: Think back to times in previous roles or projects where you felt supported and respected. Identifying what makes you feel valued might help as you look toward new opportunities. Sometimes, it’s also useful to write down strengths and accomplishments to remind yourself of the value you bring.
- Exploring Support: Given how this has affected you, you may find it helpful to connect with a counselor or therapist, even for a few sessions. This can offer a safe space to work through these feelings and help you rebuild confidence and resilience. Therapy can also offer new strategies for handling workplace anxiety so that these feelings don’t carry into your future work experiences.
Remember, this situation doesn’t define your worth or capability. You’re going through a tough period, but it doesn’t change who you are or the positive things you bring to any role. Take your time, be gentle with yourself, and know that these feelings are normal responses to a tough experience. Reconnecting with what makes you feel appreciated and confident will come with time, and you have every right to seek and create the support you need.
Take care, and know that your feelings truly matter.