An A-student is finding it hard to adjust to working life.

It’s a difficult transition, says our elder. You’ll be back to your old self soon.

Dear EWC

I was always a bright student, the best at school, work and college. People admired me for my achievements and work. Recently I got hired by a high paying company (the highest package for my batch) but got a job and domain for which I never had any passion. Now I feel the inferiority complex of not being the best, which I had always been. I feel sad for myself. It’s not like I have greed for more money — all I want is to be happy. I was never like this, I feel scared and dejected. I have lost my smile and happiness somewhere. Please help me out.

Roxie replies

It sounds from your letter as if this might be your first job after graduation. If that’s true, then, like many people, you may be finding the transition from school to work to be difficult. The expectations change, as do the measures of our success. Instead of our peer group, we may find ourselves working with people of different ages and backgrounds. It can take time to settle in. If this is your situation, you probably should consider giving your new job a chance (you don’t say how long you have been working there.)
However, if you still feel that you are working in a job for which you have no passion, you should seriously think about looking for something else. You are fortunate that money is not an issue for you. Decide what you want to do with your life, and, while you are still young, reach for that goal.
It seems as if your work problems are responsible for your sadness. Whether or not this is the case, there are things that you can do (in addition to changing jobs, which may take a while) to help yourself feel better. Make sure that you continue to spend time with friends. Look for activities outside of work that can give you happiness. Try to get plenty of exercises, and spend time each day out of doors. For some people, meditation can be helpful.
If your feelings persist, you might consider talking to a therapist. Most likely your dejection will turn out to be temporary and you will be your old self soon.

Letter #: 437764
Category: Career