Need Advice. Anyone else go "crazy" over perceptions / what others are thinking about you?

I have had this problem since I was an analyst 1 and I thought it would be better by now but no. I constantly freak out on what my VP director and MD think about me. I got good review each year, but feel like the reviews are just super surface level. Everytime I make a mistake and they catch it I feel like a moron and it ruins my entire day. I ger anxiety every time I submit something or have to ask them a question. I just go crazy on what their perception is of me and is making going into work everyday an absolute nightmare. Any thoughts / tips / suggestions? 

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some tips and suggestions to help manage anxiety about perceptions at work:

  1. Focus on Continuous Improvement:

    • Understand that everyone makes mistakes. Use them as learning opportunities to improve your skills and knowledge.
    • Seek feedback actively and constructively. This shows your commitment to growth and can help you understand areas for improvement.
  2. Build Strong Relationships:

    • Develop a good rapport with your colleagues, including your VP, director, and MD. Strong professional relationships can help reduce anxiety about perceptions.
    • Engage in regular, open communication. This can help demystify what others think about you and provide clarity.
  3. Mindset Shift:

    • Shift your focus from worrying about others' perceptions to delivering high-quality work. Concentrate on what you can control.
    • Practice self-compassion. Be kind to yourself and recognize your achievements and progress.
  4. Professional Development:

    • Invest in your professional development. Consider resources like the WSO Academy or other training programs to enhance your skills and confidence.
    • Stay updated with industry trends and best practices to ensure your work is always top-notch.
  5. Seek Support:

    • Talk to a mentor or trusted colleague about your concerns. They can provide perspective and advice based on their experiences.
    • Consider professional help if anxiety becomes overwhelming. A counselor or therapist can offer strategies to manage anxiety effectively.
  6. Set Realistic Expectations:

    • Understand that perfection is unattainable. Aim for excellence, but accept that mistakes are part of the learning process.
    • Recognize that reviews are often surface-level due to time constraints. If you need more detailed feedback, don't hesitate to ask for it.

By implementing these strategies, you can gradually reduce anxiety about perceptions and focus more on your professional growth and well-being.

Sources: Random Thought/Tip for College Students, A McKinsey grads eight tips for success at work, Year 1 in consulting - tips, tricks, advice, and unspoken rules., Anyone have any tips on putting together presentation materials?, Having serious thoughts about B-school for the first time - can anyone offer any advice?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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