Constant requests causing panic attacks

Hi. I'm a Generalist M&A MBA Associate (no prior IB experience), and I'm struggling to handle the pressure of the Job. I get staffed on and requested for stuff that I have no idea to handle. I do ask around and get it done, but every time I get a request or a phone call, my heart starts to pound, and I feel I would get a heart attack. How to handle this situation.

9 Comments
 

Is it getting better or worse? The learning curve in IB is steep so its normal to feel overwhelmed in the beginning. If you’re an MBA associate tho then I’m assuming your a little under a year in, which should mean things are getting easier. If they are then just relax and give it time. If its getting harder then maybe take a step back and think if you’re in the right career.

 

First of all, read the email and then give yourself a 3-5 minute break. Don't work on anything, go make coffee or a snack and think about the first steps to getting stuff done. Sounds silly, but it can be overwhelming when you start and I find just thinking about requests for a minute or two helps me make a game plan

Ultimately though, you will feel like this for at least the first two months. It gets better. At 6 months you will know how to do most things.

 

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