Well, tomorrow is her first day in the new job. I guess I know all the symptoms she is/will be going through from now till the end of the first week: Stress, doubt, fear, sleepless nights, anxiety, everyone is watching me… Etc.
I have been talking to her for the past fortnight to ease her in. I’ve been there many times before, and it’s always the same: no matter how confident or professional you are, you will have some of these feelings.
Having known her for so long, I know she’s got what it takes and more to nail this job; however, her attitude of “offence is the best defence” clearly shows her fear of change.
The new job touches her on a very personal level. She has been there before with her mom, and she saw first-hand how a little smile and encouragement can improve the quality of the day for the patients. She is afraid of the emotional attachment that might happen due to her extreme sensitivity. Still, again, part of accepting this job is to give back to this hospital and those who cared for, smiled for, helped, and made the final days manageable.
I will wait for her after work, hoping things go well on her first day.
