Employee Terrified Of Losing Job
DEAR HARRIETTE: I am having severe anxiety attacks about losing my job. The company I work for has been doing small reorganizations of my department all year. It feels like I am just waiting for my turn to be let go. I am a poor interviewer, and I don't have a large network. Since the economy is so bad, I am scared it may take me years to find a new job and I'm going to have to move back in with my parents. This fear has started to take over my day-to-day life. I find myself constantly overanalyzing every meeting, every email and every interaction with my manager, wondering if it's a sign that something is about to happen. Even small changes, like shifts in team responsibilities or co-workers being pulled into meetings without me, make my mind spiral into worst-case scenarios. It's getting to the point where I have trouble focusing on my actual work because I'm so consumed by the uncertainty.
Outside of work, it's not much better. I've been losing sleep, replaying all the ways things could go wrong and what I would do if I suddenly didn't have an income. I try to prepare by looking at job postings, but that makes me feel more discouraged because I don't feel qualified enough or confident in my ability to interview for what's available. How can I get a grip on myself? -- Paralyzed
DEAR PARALYZED: Drum up some courage and speak to your supervisor. Start by saying how much you appreciate your job and want to do your best, but you are worried about the future because of all the layoffs. Ask directly if your job is at risk and what, if anything, you can do to keep it. This way you will know.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I went on a date recently. It was the first date I've been on in a long time. My date was adorable! His personality had depth and didn't feel overbearing. My last relationship lasted way too long, and it really changed the way I view romance. Before my ex, I was what some may call a hopeless romantic, but now I don't feel as drawn to serious relationships. I simply do not trust men anymore. I know that sounds bitter, but after being played for so many years, I refuse to rush into commitment again. My friends are telling me not to bring yesterday into tomorrow, but that is hard. I see it as me avoiding unnecessary hurt by being cautious from the start. However, I do want to give this new guy a chance. Am I scorned or being smart? -- New Love
DEAR NEW LOVE: That past heartbreak makes it hard to trust the potential wonder and purity that a future relationship may offer. You should not give up. Go out and meet people. Enjoy the moments as you get to know potential suitors. Keep your eyes open. Ask questions. Pay attention. If you start dating someone, check in early about values. What does each of you care about? Be direct when inquiring about cheating, monogamy, money, family, etc. Be inquisitive so you know what you are getting yourself into.
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(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
Copyright 2026, Harriette Cole
COPYRIGHT 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication. This feature may not be reproduced or distributed electronically, in print or otherwise without the written permission of Andrews McMeel Syndication.
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