Everyone dreads starting a new job, they hate having to completely readjust their schedule, they hate having to memorize the best route to the job, and they especially hate having to talk and meet new people (unless you're the kind of person that likes new and unknown experiences). I felt all of this when starting my new job as a busser at a restaurant called Rock and Brew's. Even though it's just a job to get me through college expenses, it was still stressful starting the job. Here's why.
For one, I'm a very shy person when thrown into new environments. But after a while I usually crack that shell and really start being a personable person. So when we began orientation, I barely talked to anyone. I made no friends except for one guy that I had already known from high school. I was very quiet and dreaded bringing attention to myself, and did my best so that people wouldn't notice me. I just wanted to do my job and get paid, not make friends. But of course, life doesn't always go your way, especially if you're not a social butterfly. I had to make friends, or I would hate my job.
The reason I had to make friends was that the hours were so long, it was impossible not to interact with some of my coworkers just to pass the time making conversation. So as I made conversation, I realized that some of my coworkers were actually really cool and friendly. As time passed, I got out of my shell and the stress of making new friends went away.
Readjusting my schedule was another factor that added stress to starting this new job. I gave my job my availability, thinking that I wouldn't get that bad of hours, but man, was I wrong. The restaurant is also a bar, so that means we close at midnight on weekdays, and at one on weekends. And closing was one of the things I have come to hate with a burning passion. Getting home at 3:30 A.M on weekends is one of the things about my job that I hate. Especially if I work the next day. Sometimes, I would go an entire shift without eating, and that meant not eating until the morning of the next day. I've gotten somewhat used to it, but it still isn't enjoyable. The hours haven't affected me in an obvious way, but I can feel my sleep schedule getting screwed up already.
In time, the stress of starting a new job will go away. It hasn't for me, but I trust it will in time. My schedule will align itself, and I'm sure my coworkers will come to like me and interact with me more.
