I'm nervous and freaking out (slightly)

[WillParkinson]

The transfer that I applied for has been approved by 2 of the 4 people needed. I'm cautiously optimistic. HOWEVER...I'm 48 years old. I've never done this job before in my life. For the last 25 years I've always done the same kind of work and now I'm afraid to try something different for fear of failing.

I keep telling myself that the person who had the job before me (she just retired) wasn't any different than me and if she could handle it I probably can, too, but that's not enough to keep the fear and doubt from creeping in.

How does one instill confidence in themselves to branch out and try new things and still have the confidence that they CAN do something?

[gratuitous]

1. You is kind. You is smart. You is important.

And don't forget to ask for help.

[hamsterjill]

6. Love it!

And in every life there will be a "Two Slice Hilly". You just gotta do what you can about those types, and keep on keeping on.

Good luck to Will!

[Scuba]

2. Are you kidding me? Of course you're up to it!

I've seen total idiots succeed in this world. Anyone with your brains as demonstrated on your many DU posts will be a success!

I applied for a job once that included a complete psychiatric evaluation. The shrink told me it was normal for us to doubt ourselves and under-appreciate our own accomplishments (hey, we know about all the less-than-perfect parts).

My neighbor built his home pretty much by himself, and did a great job. When he gave me the grand tour, he pointed out everything that he "didn't get right". What an affirmation of the shrink's words.

It's good to be aware of your shortcomings, so you can manage them, not let them pull you down.

[riderinthestorm]

3. You already said it - the woman before you did it, so you can too.

Its perfectly normal to have that fear of a new task but judging from your insightful, clever, interesting posts on DU, I know you have the intelligence to master anything you really want.

Just keep reminding yourself that if she could do it, you can do it. And you will.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

4. I know you can do it, my dear WillParkinson...

New jobs are always a challenge...that's why we want them!

Ask questions, keep your eyes open, and jump in.

Good luck, sweetie.......NOT that you'll need it!

[siligut]

5. Hey, you are being evaluated by 4 people who know what they are doing

They won't give you the job unless they know you can do it. Good grief, you are only 48, you can learn new things, don't sell yourself so short.

Now you can start to get a little excited about a new job!

[RebelOne]

7. Just go do it!!

I was elevated to a position that I wasn't sure that I could handle. But I jumped in with no problem.