Experiencing a Panic Attack
I’m in the middle of a panic attack because, despite two years of schooling and four months at my current firm, I still struggle to grasp the concept of double-entry Accounting and identify issues with balance sheets.
I feel lost right now. My colleagues seem to pity me, and I nearly had a breakdown realizing how much I’ve been struggling. I’ve asked the same questions so many times that I feel embarrassed for needing clarification. It’s as if they’re just waiting for tax season to end so they can let me go.
Right now, I’m just handling payroll and bank reconciliations, waiting for someone else to take over my responsibilities once tax season is over.
One response
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re still learning in a challenging environment. Remember that everyone has a learning curve, and it sounds like you’re in a tough spot trying to grasp complex concepts like double-entry Bookkeeping and balance sheets.
First, please know that asking questions is a crucial part of learning, even if it feels repetitive. It’s better to ask for clarification than to struggle in silence. Is there someone more experienced you can ask for guidance, perhaps outside of work, or even consider finding a mentor? They might be able to give you a different perspective that makes things click for you.
Also, try to take a step back and remind yourself of what you already know. Celebrate the small victories in your work and progress. It can be helpful to break things down into manageable parts and focus on one thing at a time.
If you’re truly feeling like you’re not a good fit for the role, it might be worth having a candid conversation with your supervisor about your challenges and your desire to improve. They might offer resources or training that could help.
Remember to take care of yourself during this stressful time. If you’re feeling consistently anxious, it might be beneficial to talk to a professional who can help you work through these feelings. You’re not alone in this, and things can get better!