I’ve started a new job and this time I am managing my expectations and keeping work/work related anything at arms length, unlike the past where I’ve let it consume me to the point of anxiety induced insomnia.
Little changes I’ve made include leaving during lunch and sitting/eating in my car with audiobooks, Netflix’s, etc. Not getting “too close” with coworkers, like I will not be seeing you outside of work, holiday parties included. Not going above and beyond excessively to where people just expected it.
Lastly, my favorite, I will be putting in any/all PTO requests days for the year and have something actually planned to do, with a full day of rest at home planned before returning to work if it’s a long trip. This is still a work in progress, but first day off requested will be my birthday. For perspective, I used to work and never take time off because of permanent short staffing.
Setting firm boundaries this time and remaining hopeful for a tolerable work environment.