Posted by Shar on July 16, 2001, at 22:33:55
In reply to Did my job define me?, posted by Greg on July 16, 2001, at 12:45:57
The only way your job defined you was the requirement that certain tasks be completed. How you did them, what you created--systems, processes, what you brought to the job was all your doing.
If a job defined one, then anyone in that job would be identical to the others who had had that job.
Now, it is possible that you define yourself in terms of your job, as we all may do to some degree or another. I am also a type A person about work, don't hesitate to put in long days and weekends when called for, etc. But, since I've been out of work, the essential me hasn't changed drastically. I don't think the essential you will either.
I have a part time job now and I noticed that the things I must do to keep the job define how I behave--e.g., I don't call the customers names to their faces. But, who I am hasn't changed. Who you are hasn't changed.
You must find a way to get out of this hole you are in--even a few trips to the therapist might be a good idea. If you are already spiraling down, there is no time to lose in getting a different perspective on this. You have to shore up your coping skills and stand guard over your self-esteem, and not take this personally.
It's true. I'm not shittin ya, Greg.
xoxo
YIC
Shar
> I posted recently about losing my job. I've tried as hard as I can to not let it bring me down, but my self-esteem has really gone into the toilet. I feel useless, and have no feeling of self worth.
>
> I've always been the one at work who is there 14-16 hours a day, works another 8-10 over the weekend. I put everything I have into doing a job correctly. I guess I'm your classic workaholic. Losing my job has left me feeling so empty.
>
> My question is, did I allow my job to define who I am? Any thoughts would be appreciated. I'm trying to get this put into perspective before I spiral any further down.
>
> Thanks,
> Greg
poster:Shar
thread:7503
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20010706/msgs/7529.html