[beeutterfly]

Tomorrow morning I begin my pharmacy technician externship.
The shift is 7 hours long, Monday through Thursday.
I haven't worked (because face it, it's a job, even though I'm paying to be there) since the very end of 2007. I left my job and eventually began the path to SSDI, which I am now on. I'm working on going off of SSDI but not quite yet. I'm kind of waiting to see how I do with the externship before I decide on applying for jobs. But I digress.

A lot of "first in a long time"'s tomorrow! Does anyone have any advice for me? Encouragement and literal suggestions are welcome.

Like I said, it's been a long time. I also haven't had to be on my feet for 7 hours a day since the last job but I'm really hoping I adjust quickly, physically. I'm worried my physical situation & mind are going to cause me some issues. Nervous I won't be able to handle the stress and manage and balance all of what's going on in my head without passing out from it spinning 'round and 'round lol. Not trying to crap out before I even get there, just trying to be realistic. I know there's no use in worrying, but I can't help but wonder. I want to make the experience as awesome as possible! I'd also just like to be able to get through it happily. Fingers crossed!

Tomorrow I will try to give myself mini-breaks, even if it's using the restroom for 2 minutes of rest. I'll do my best to stay positive and excited! Probably stretch a lot, too. I'm excited!

[eternaldamnation]

Originally Posted by beeutterfly

Tomorrow morning I begin my pharmacy technician externship.
The shift is 7 hours long, Monday through Thursday.
I haven't worked (because face it, it's a job, even though I'm paying to be there) since the very end of 2007. I left my job and eventually began the path to SSDI, which I am now on. I'm working on going off of SSDI but not quite yet. I'm kind of waiting to see how I do with the externship before I decide on applying for jobs. But I digress.

A lot of "first in a long time"'s tomorrow! Does anyone have any advice for me? Encouragement and literal suggestions are welcome.

Like I said, it's been a long time. I also haven't had to be on my feet for 7 hours a day since the last job but I'm really hoping I adjust quickly, physically. I'm worried my physical situation & mind are going to cause me some issues. Nervous I won't be able to handle the stress and manage and balance all of what's going on in my head without passing out from it spinning 'round and 'round lol. Not trying to crap out before I even get there, just trying to be realistic. I know there's no use in worrying, but I can't help but wonder. I want to make the experience as awesome as possible! I'd also just like to be able to get through it happily. Fingers crossed!

Tomorrow I will try to give myself mini-breaks, even if it's using the restroom for 2 minutes of rest. I'll do my best to stay positive and excited! Probably stretch a lot, too. I'm excited!

i'm happy for you

i think you're well prepared, since you already know what to do if you start to feel overwhelmed. i'l give you a thought that passed through my mind..

keep bottled water with you (seriously, water is like a miracle savior in a bottle). not only will you stay well hydrated, but having your trusty bottle of water to hold in your hands can give you a great sense of security. oh, and a pocket of tic tacs or something could be useful, too.

maybe you'll be happily surprised and find that you can't wait to go back again the next day, and the next, and the next ...

[Gus1234U]

remember that even good changes add stress to our lives. be sure to eat a good breakfast, and rest as soon as you get home until you build up your stamina. a nap on Saturday and Sunday will help if you are finding the stimulation is interfering with your sleep. never underestimate the need for additional sleep in new and stressful situations. and Congratulations!

[winter4me]

Fabulous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! As the others have said, carry water, rest up when you can, do some stretching when you get home after being on your feet all day (you may find you get some cramping at night after a while, for a while, but it will pass---do wear good shoes ((((((((((hugs))))))))))))) And, don't forget to breathe. Nice and easy. Take your breaks, bring nutritious snacks/lunch (fruit, nuts, whole grains, protein) Do some walking before and after if you can. What a good job you are already doing!!!!

[beeutterfly]

Thank you all for your wonderful words. These are some good suggestions, too! I almost always have my Brita water bottle on me so that's taken care of. Thanks again.

[beeutterfly]

I've been super exhausted but I haven't given up. I don't intend to!