Posted by noa on December 16, 2003, at 18:35:39
In reply to Yet another career thread (long), posted by Emme on December 16, 2003, at 8:06:34
>>>The obnoxious overachiever side is screaming bloody murder and the depressed side is saying “I give up, I can’t deal with the pain anymore, let’s get out of here!”
You need to focus on the middle of that continuum more, some sort of middle ground between the dichotomy.
Also, when you look at and compare yourself to people with careers well on their way, you are setting yourself up to feel inadequate because you have to start at the beginning, just as everyone does. They did, too, obviously (I know you "know" this but your emotional side probably needs reminding)---it is just that right now it isn't readily apparent that they once were beginners too. You seem to be wanting to expect yourself to have the new career and new skills fully formed, and not allow yourself to be a beginner. That is asking too much of yourself, I think.
How about not pressuring yourself to decide on a career path right now, but focus on a short term job goal. Maybe when you are feeling stronger, you'll be able to envision more of a career path.
As my therapist recently reminded me, "it is important to remember that you do have a depressive disorder". It was very helpful to me when he said this, to remind me to go easier on the pressures I was putting on myself in terms of what I expect of myself at this time.
poster:noa
thread:290427
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20031207/msgs/290714.html