Getting Fired: Look out for these signs

What are the parallels between Elon Musk, Serena Williams, and Leonardo DiCaprio?

They are all big worriers, despite the fact that they are all wildly popular in their fields. Elon Musk has spoken about his job and life's "terrible lows and unrelenting tension." Serena Williams has opened up about her anxiety and self-doubt. And Leonardo DiCaprio has expressed concern about his career's prospects.

Exceptional achievers are more worried than most about failing, disappointing others, failing to fulfil their own lofty goals, and, yes, even losing their jobs.  If you're just starting out with your career, you're probably concerned with the very same issues. According to a 2019 survey, younger generations are more likely than their forefathers to feel anxiety at work. At work, Gen Zers are three times more likely to have anxiety-related symptoms. For millennials, the number jumps to four. Here are some questions to ask yourself to decide whether or not your fears are justified, particularly if they are related to losing your job.

The financial state of your organisation

2020 is likely to heighten your worries about job security. The pandemic had an influence on many organisations, general unemployment increased, and young people were disproportionately affected.

It's fair to be concerned about being fired or laid off if the company's financial situation is poor. However, since not all businesses are open regarding their budgets, this can be difficult to determine. Do some research on the state of your business, as well as the economy of your country, to put your fears into context.

Organisation's culture

Some businesses have cultures that are transparent, accessible, and feedback-oriented. If you work for one of these firms, you'll likely benefit from predictable HR procedures, such as standardized performance evaluations and reasonable and fair management decisions. Unfortunately, the majority of people do not work for transparent organizations like this, so they are forced to examine what behaviour, incidents, or negative feedback may be warning signs. If your company's culture sounds more like the latter, it's natural to be more concerned about losing your job, especially if you're worried about your performance or receiving negative feedback from your boss. In these circumstances, it is useful to understand how your boss thinks and operates.

Manager's train of thought

Asking your supervisor specifically about the possibility of being fired is the best way to determine whether or not you will be fired. Although it may be uncomfortable, you might address the subject in a subtle manner. "I'd love to hear your input on my performance," you might say during your next one-on-one meeting." "Is there something I can do to add more value to you and the company?" you can follow up with. Negative feedback is difficult for managers to provide, but you can make it easier for them to criticize you. If the feedback you get is excessively negative and non-constructive, you should be concerned. It's understandable if some workers are afraid to specifically ask their supervisor for input. You should continue to look for indicators in your boss's actions in this situation. Ask your coworkers if their boss gives them positive input on their work, if he or she talks with them on a frequent and straightforward basis, and if they find your boss boring. Although you and your colleagues may have different views on the same person, having a common view of your employer can help you both perceive their actions more easily and may mitigate any false fears you have about being fired.

Own personal biases

Most people are optimists, to the point that they believe in themselves so much that they exaggerate their own abilities and potential. This is why they should be shocked if they are fired or do not receive a promotion. On the other hand, pessimists are often the harshest critics of their own work.

It's fine to overthink certain stuff as long as you're mindful of your mental wellbeing and can back up your worries with facts. We think about stuff all of the time in order to defend ourselves and plan for the unknown. And for some of us, anxiety is what drives us to be better at our careers. However, bear in mind that getting shot isn't the end of the world. Many of the world's most creative musicians, designers, and innovators, including Steve Jobs and Oprah Winfrey, have been fired at some stage in their careers. It will feel bad at the moment, but if your fears of being fired come true, remember that it does not mean the end of your career. You'll get back on track.