Am I putting unrealistic expectations on myself for being new at a job?

[Anonymous]

Prior to this job, I worked in financial aid for ~2 years. That was my 1st time ever working in the field but before that job I was an academic advisor. Early on during training when I was on a call with a trainer, I ended up breaking down crying bc I felt overwhelmed. I ended up pushing through & the trainers let my new team know that I was doing well. Eventually ended up having higher metrics compared to a lot of people on my team. Anxiety was always there but I got *better*, I was miserable at that job though due to the workload.

Now I’m in my 3rd week working for another school remotely in FA again, this is a school I’ve been trying to get in at for almost as long as I was at my other job (mostly bc of pay). I’m training by myself with the manager & I like her so far, she keeps telling me that I’m doing a good job (I’m not asking) & she felt the need to let the whole team know that I’m doing good/picking up fast when I was introduced to them earlier this week. This job is more in depth vs the last job & she even told me that they only hire people with experience now bc of how much there is to it. When she first taught me something new, it took a few tries & I picked it up, then she teaches me something else & I get it the first try.

I made my first 2 calls today & I felt shaky, she also said nicely that the first few calls will feel like that/ it was obvious it was one of my first calls but I did a good job. I felt like a wreck + then she gave me another assignment of something I caught onto before but I ended up getting stuck this time. I was obv frustrated & it was right before I was done for the day but I just couldn’t think straight bc I felt so upset with my progress.

Am I being too hard on myself? Am I right to believe this might not be a good fit for me? I’ve been so upset since I clocked out & am dreading tomorrow.

Yes

No

[AI Opinion]

It's natural to feel overwhelmed and doubt yourself, especially in the early stages of a new job. Transitioning roles can bring anxiety, but it sounds like you're doing well, as your manager has acknowledged. Remember that progress is not linear; there will be ups and downs. Given your prior success despite initial challenges, it's likely you'll adapt and excel here too. Give yourself time to adjust, and consider discussing your feelings with your manager for additional support. Authentic growth often emerges from moments of discomfort, so approach each day as a learning opportunity.

[Oliverlogan263]

Hey girl, don't feel so down on yourself! It's only been 3 weeks into a new job - of course you're not gonna be perfect yet. And this is financial aid, which can be super complicated stuff to learn. Cut yourself some slack!

Your manager saying you're doing well and picking things up fast is a great sign. It's totally normal to get hung up on something even if you knew it before - we all have off days. Don't be so hard on yourself.

The first few calls are always gonna feel shaky when you're new. That'll pass as you get more experience. It sounds like your manager is supportive and understands you're learning. Try not to stress so much - make mistakes, that's how you learn!

As long as your manager is happy with your progress, I say give it more time before deciding if it's a fit. These things take months sometimes to really get comfortable. Be kinder to yourself - you've got this! Remember why you wanted this job in the first place. Take it one day at a time. You've got this sis!

[strateguy632]

Yepp