Deep sigh, where do I even begin. If you’re found your first job CONGRATS, OMG! You’re entering such a beautiful season in your life, but as they always say to who much is given, much is required.
As I said in my previous blog post, I started working about a month after graduation day. Through the grace of God, I found a job I (mostly) enjoy, and I am blessed with again (mostly) great colleagues and a healthy work environment. But even with all things considered, navigating the switch from being a student and being an employee can be weird.
DISCLAIMER: THIS IS BASED ON MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.
Before, the job I currently have I interned and worked for our campus newspaper but that wasn’t as hectic really and it was obviously part time, so this was my first big girl job. Thanks to the pandemic, I worked from home for the first few months, I now go to the office once or twice a week (read as once).
First job in the face of a pandemic
I started meeting my colleagues (face to face) literally months after I had started working. I soon realised I was the youngest in the office. I’m 21 and my colleagues have children my age and that did present some challenges in terms of having a “work friend” and finding people who I can fully relate to. If you’re a recent graduate or about to graduate, this might be the reality for you as well but it’s not that bad. Additionally, it is also important to note that, if you’re a new employee, your colleagues already know each other. Some of them have worked together for years so that could make you feel like an outsider.
Dash of imposter syndrome
Imposter Syndrome is loosely defined as doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud. When I started working my colleagues complimented me on my work often and as much as it’s a satisfying feeling it also made me feel like I wasn’t as skilled as they made it sound. I also found myself questioning why I was chosen for the job and not any of the other candidates. I also felt this way while I considered myself really blessed, so many other graduates I know with my exact qualification were still job haunting and I felt like “what makes me so special?”. I don’t feel that way anymore, but I’d like to think I am not the only one who felt/feels that way. If you are currently feeling like I did, remember God wouldn’t bless you with something you’re not ready for. You’re worthy, you belong.
For me, the most difficult aspect of working (in comparison to studying) is striking that perfect work-life balance. Because I work about 40 hours a week (9 – 5), the only time I really have to spend time with friends and family, rest, spend time alone, go out, run errands and all those other things is on weekends.
Sliver lining
Working, however does have its benefits. One of them being getting a salary that you know you worked super hard for. And, working, in my opinion is A LOT less stressful then studying.
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