Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav

Social anxiety?

User Profile: tallKiwi2190
tallKiwi2190 September 19th, 2025

Hi guys, so I’m scared of getting a job because I’m scared the customers & my co-workers might think I’m stupid. I don’t have actually job experience because I had 1 job but quit the first day. I’m 20 years old and I never worked at a cash register so I’m scared of counting change in front of people because once again I’m scared they might think I’m counting too slow. I really want a job so I can buy my own car and other stuff. I feel behind in life. I did apply to dollar general and haven’t heard anything back yet I applied about 2 days ago. Since I’m scared to get a job and I’m worried about what others think about me, it’s causing me to have suicidal thoughts. I know I won’t act on these thoughts because I’m too scared to but I think I’m more passive suicidal because I have thoughts of wishing I was never born. Any advice for me?

5
User Profile: toughTiger6481
toughTiger6481 September 20th, 2025

@tallKiwi2190

No one starts a job knowing what to do.... every place you go will have training involved and many of us get stressed when someone is watching us do something.

The reality is co-workers in general are helpful in teaching others and those who are jerks often just  treat new ppl bad because they want to feel superior it says far more about them then to you.  

Customers as well most who are rushing or critical are taking out their issues NOT a reflection on you.  i worked retail and it can be a real experience in learning to deal with all sorts of situations. 

YOU can do it....... nothing was ever as scary as I thought new jobs would be.   do not stress / do not panic you will handle things better ....as they come up .......when ever i stressed and planned for things they never happened as i planned was a waste of time effort and stress. 

2 replies
User Profile: tallKiwi2190
tallKiwi2190 OP September 20th, 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to read what I posted. I love the response that you gave me. I hopefully I get the job I applied for a job which requires me to work at the cash register. If I do get the job, I know I’ll be nervous but I’ll come back and read over the response you posted. I’m sure it will make me feel better.

1 reply
User Profile: tallKiwi2190
tallKiwi2190 OP September 20th, 2025

And I think reading your response over again will make me feel less nervous before starting the cashier job

load more
load more
User Profile: myyelle
myyelle September 22nd, 2025

I totally understand where you’re coming from. I’m in the same boat and also scared of interviews or looking stupid at a job. Even me responding here was a big step because I get nervous talking to people. But I had to speak because I know what you’re going through.

One thing I’ve learned is that looking stupid or being judged says more about others than about us. We all make mistakes, feel awkward, and have fears. The fact that you’re applying for jobs despite the “what ifs” is amazing and inspiring. That drive and courage are real accomplishments.

My advice is acknowledge even the small wins. That’s something that helps me when I feel low and keeps me motivated when negative thoughts creep in. Also, building confidence in your skills and even small ones, like handling money or talking to customers. It really helps.

I hear you, I get it, and your feelings are valid. We got this!! And especially, I truly believe you can do this!!

1 reply
User Profile: tallKiwi2190
tallKiwi2190 OP September 22nd, 2025

Thank you for the advice and I like the advice that you gave me. We do got this :)

load more