Starting a New Job: Why Everyone Wants to Quit in the First Month and How to Get Through It

Starting a new job is an exciting milestone in anyone’s career, you have waited for it, dreamed about it and then finally, the big day is here! After a not-so-resting night, you get dressed and ready, and off you go! Yet, the first month at work comes with a set of challenges. It’s common to feel overwhelmed or uncertain during the first month. In fact, many people experience a sense of wanting to quit during this time. But why does this happen, and more importantly, how can you push through it?

1. The Overwhelming Feeling of Newness

When you start a new job, everything is unfamiliar. The office layout, the team dynamics, the new software or tools, and the expectations placed on you can make you feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up. The sheer volume of information you need to absorb can be exhausting. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed during this phase, but it’s crucial to remember that everyone, no matter how seasoned they are, experiences this.

How to Get Through It:

Take one day at a time. Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Don’t try to know everything all at once. Focus on building relationships with coworkers, asking questions when needed, and understanding the most pressing aspects of your role first. You’ll find your rhythm as time goes on.

2. Imposter Syndrome: Feeling Like You Don’t Belong

Imposter syndrome is a sneaky feeling that often creeps up when you start a new job. You might feel like you don’t deserve to be there, that you’re not good enough, or that you won’t live up to expectations. This is especially common when you’re surrounded by colleagues who seem to have everything figured out. But the truth is, no one is perfect, and everyone goes through a learning curve.

How to Get Through It:

Recognize that imposter syndrome is a common experience and a sign that you’re pushing yourself to grow. Give yourself permission to be a beginner. Acknowledge your strengths and the skills that got you hired in the first place. Your boss and team have faith in your abilities, so trust in yourself as well.

3. The Fear of Failing

When you start a new job, there’s often an underlying fear that you’ll make mistakes that could jeopardize your position. You might worry about making a bad impression or being judged for not meeting expectations right away. It’s easy to feel like every misstep will be catastrophic, but that fear can be paralyzing if you let it take control.

How to Get Through It:

Understand that mistakes are part of the learning process. Everyone has made them, and it’s how you handle and learn from them that matters most. Communicate openly with your manager, ask for feedback, and be proactive in making improvements. Mistakes don’t define you—they shape you into a better professional.

4. Lack of Work-Life Balance

Starting a new job often means you’re putting in extra hours to prove yourself. This can lead to burnout if you don’t manage your time effectively. The pressure to deliver can sometimes make it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and many people begin to feel frustrated and exhausted in the first month.

How to Get Through It:

Set clear boundaries between work and personal time. Don’t be afraid to leave work on time, even if there’s still a lot to do. Prioritize tasks and learn how to delegate when necessary. Balance is key to long-term success, and taking care of your mental and physical well-being is vital to staying in the game.

5. Social Anxiety: Getting to Know New People

A new job means meeting new people, and this can bring its own set of social anxieties. It’s natural to feel unsure about how to interact with your colleagues, find your place in the office culture, or understand the unspoken norms within the team. Social anxiety can quickly lead to feelings of isolation or discomfort, making you question whether you’re a good fit for the company.

How to Get Through It:

Give yourself time to adjust. Building relationships takes time, so don’t rush it. Start with small talk and gradually engage in conversations with your coworkers. Participate in group activities or office events to break the ice. Eventually, you’ll find your circle and feel more comfortable in your new environment.

6. Unrealistic Expectations

Sometimes, new employees set unrealistic expectations for themselves. The desire to prove yourself and impress your boss can push you to overcommit and overwork, setting yourself up for disappointment when things don’t go as planned. Managing these expectations is crucial for maintaining your mental and emotional well-being during the first month.

How to Get Through It:

Be realistic about what you can accomplish in the first few weeks. Communicate with your manager about priorities and timelines. It’s better to under promise and overdeliver than to burn out trying to meet unreasonable goals. Remember that the first month is all about learning, and it’s okay to ask for help or clarification when you need it.

Be Kind to Yourself

The first month at a new job can be tough, but it’s important to remember that these feelings are temporary. Most of what you’re going through is part of a natural adjustment process. Give yourself time to settle in, ask for support when needed, and celebrate small wins along the way. As you go, take time to notice the small progress that you are making. This will encourage and motivate you! With patience and persistence, you’ll soon find that what once felt overwhelming becomes second nature.

Starting a new job can be intimidating, but it’s also an opportunity for growth, learning, and self-discovery. Keep going, and before you know it, you’ll be thriving in your new role.

Gaelle Chatenet November 2025