I worked as a waitress before in cafes and restaurants and it was fine, most of the times the clients were families and almost no one really made an interaction with me beside of the order, basically most of my interactions were ‘’what do you want to order’’ ‘’here’s your food’’ and ‘‘do you need something else’’ but now I’m starting working in a bar and I’m really stressed, I never been in a bar, and since I lost contact with my only friends I’m kinda isolated of the world. I don’t see how I will socialize with young people my age and it makes me really anxious. in my previous jobs my coworkers were pointing how I zoned out when I felt uncomfortable in some situations which also embarrassed me a lot
3 comments
Okay my first advice is calm down and breath your do every day and you will be able to continue to do. Ok let’s first see what you get so anxious when socializing with young people rather then everyone else take some time to think about that. I’d also recommend learning some breathing techniques and doing your best to stay present. Will it be hard at first yes however staying present and facing your fear will allow your to learn how to manage it or work past it. Lastly I’d see about speaking to a therapist for more support and maybe a doctor for some anti anxiety medication as well.
Wow congratulations on pushing yourself! This job will help a lot.
Neat trick us auties like to use – create a script. Basically a series of responses that you can use over and over again in various situations/conversations. Your customers won’t know you’re saying the same thing you say to everyone else, and you’ll be much more comfortable. I do this at every job, but I worked in bars for several years. I have 5 or so different greetings (not just one, so I’m not a robot), ways to say goodbye when you close out the check, even jokes or comments relating to menu items. Occasionally something will come up that you don’t have a planned response for, but once you handle that situation you know how to handle it again in the future.
Also, observe your coworkers. If you see/hear something you like, adapt that into your own routine. (Routines are also very helpful for staying on track and keeping your sanity.) People can usually tell if you’re stressed, so try your best to stay calm and take a breath. And I know this doesn’t sound easy, but it’s okay to have some fun too! Even if you mess up everyone’s order, the world will keep on turning.
Finally, make sure you’re taking care of your basic needs before/during your shift. You’re going to do the best when you feel the best, so don’t skip meals etc, and make sure you’re hydrated, because overall that will contribute a lot to how good or bad you feel. Just do your thing, be patient with yourself, and keep trying your best every day.