I had an interview (well, "informal chat", they called it) today about a volunteering position locally. It went quite well, I think, but at one point the man "chatting" with me said to me "it's ok, there's no need to be nervous!". I didn't feel particularly nervous - or at least, I didn't think so - but since then I've realised that I actually felt the way I did in that interview most of the time when I was at my last job. I hadn't realised it was nerves, but it makes sense - I was very aware that if I made a mistake I could be fired, and so I was always trying to be perfect...and it was exhausting! I practically had a panic attack one time when I did something wrong and the supervisor noticed, because I was convinced I was going to lose my job. (I didn't.)

That wasn't the only reason I didn't like my last job, but I've been wondering why I'm trying so hard to avoid working there again, and I think this might have something to do with it. Problem is, though, that it would apply to any employment I have. I don't like letting people down at the best of times, but to make a mistake and to lose my job as a result...that really scares me. I know it's not quite that simple, but I guess it means I can never relax when I'm working.

I've been worried before that I'm never going to find a job that I like, and this is just making it more likely. Is there anything I can do?

(Any advice to stop me looking like a frightened rabbit in job interviews would be much appreciated, too. )