So you’ve made it through the endless job applications and rounds of interviews… now for the final boss: your first day. I, personally, have always dreaded first days; first day of school, first day of college orientation, first day of volleyball practice, and first day of work.
It’s the feeling of unknown that scares me. Will everyone be nice & welcoming? Am I going to embarrass myself?
I feel that the best way to tackle your first day of work is to be prepared – physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Go in with a positive attitude! The night before and morning of, try some affirmations, along the lines of “Today will be amazing,” and/or “I am going to do great.” I like to do this often as well as Pray. Do what works best for you.
Prepare: Another thing to prepare is your outfit and your belongings, this lessens the stress the morning of. Choose an outfit that makes you feel good: “look your best, feel your best.”
Decorate your office/desk! Have your personal work area feel like a piece of home. I like to have a framed photo of my daughter; it keeps me motivated. Bring something that might be meaningful or beneficial. For example: bring your earphones if you like to listen to music while you work [if job allows] or during your lunch break. I’ve heard others refer to their water bottles as “emotional support water bottles,” so bring it if that’s you.
Don’t be afraid to ask someone for help or to show you around. You are going to see your co-workers around 40hrs a week, so go mingle! Work feels a lot less like work when you make friends. If you’ve already done these things and you still have a bad day. That is okay! Tomorrow is another day, it’s human to feel discomfort with something new, get out of your comfort zone and give yourself a chance.
Written by: Rhea Baesa