Screwed up royally at work, how can I cope?

[ABdude]

Long story short, I was on my way to drop off my work truck and to head home when I stopped too far in the intersection. After checking my mirrors, I procedeeded to back up.....right into a brand new Mercedes. To make matters worse, I had forgotten my license in my car. Now I know that everyone has accidents from time to time, especially in a job that requires one to travel 8-10 hours a day. However, this was my third accident since I got hired a year and a half ago, and to be honest I am extremely worried that tomorrow I will be getting a pink slip. Worse yet, my confidence in my driving abilities has taken a massive nosedive and I am not sure I can even go out again tomorrow morning.

I guess half of this post was meant to vent a bit, and the other half asking is there any way I can salvage this situation and regain my confidence? Or am I better off looking for another job.

[help4me]

First... take a breath. Relax. You don't yet know the outcome of the situation. You might not get "fired." It might be that you voluntarily take a driving course. That alone will help you personally (and might show your boss that you recognize that there is a problem (no I'm not saying you are at fault) and you are taking steps to correct it) for any current/future vehicle insurance rates. Insurance companies usually offer some sort of discount to those that voluntarily take a driver improvement program. Second thing, think about your overall job performance. Are you a good employee? Do you do your job well other than the few accidents? Are you reliable? If you can answer yes to those... then maybe you won't get the pink slip. Most bosses would rather coach a good employee that is already "trained" than start from scratch with a new hire.

And last... I know times are rough... but moving in a new direction might just open up many new possibilities for you. A pink slip may not be a bad thing... it could be your bridge to a new and better path.

Can you talk with your boss? Is your boss approachable? If so... talk to your boss. Bosses are people too... usually

[Zoey Jordan]

I would say that you should forgive yourself. It's done, and thankfully you are safe, so maybe you can still gleen a little gratitude from what appears to be an unfortunate situation. This situation may offer you the opportunity to a) communicate with your supervisor b) receive additional training c) explore other career options. None of which would be a bad thing. I understand that since this was pretty traumatic and it just happened, you may be focusing on what appears to be a very negative situation. But I believe that our problems are opportunities, because they offer contrast between where you are now, and where you wish to go. Best of luck -- be gentle with yourself!

[ABdude]

Shortly after I wrote the original post, I contact my boss's wife to deliver a few messages. During the conversation, she assured me that I am most certainly not fired, and even went so far as to suggest that the side view mirrors be changed to compensate for the blind spot that the car was obviously in.

Aside from the fact I have been in one-too-many fender benders (which fortunately they all have been), I have been as exceptional employee, according to them. I have the second biggest workload, I often work 6+ days a week, and am usually finished before most other employees, even those with a less heavy work load than I.

Even though, my job security is assured (for the next eight months at least, but thats another story), my mental/emotional health is not. Before this accident even happened, I felt extremely stressed out and overworked. Now I am all of that times two, plus my confidence and self-image, for the moment, is now tanked.

[lostandloster]

I just wanted to say that as you explained the situation more with your second post it was clear that you are working too much. Anyone who is overworked will make mistakes. In your case you are going to make mistakes with a vehicle - not good. Is there any way you can cut back your workload? It's almost summer. Maybe you need a bit of time off. Also, it sounded a little like you take pride in having such a large workload. What are your true motivations here? Are you doing it because you truly love it or because you absolutely need the money, or is there some people pleasing going on? - never a good motivation.

Good luck

lostandloster.blogspot.com

[ZHereford]

Originally Posted by ABdude

Before this accident even happened, I felt extremely stressed out and overworked. Now I am all of that times two, plus my confidence and self-image, for the moment, is now tanked.

I think this is the real problem, not a lack of confidence. This is probably why this accident occurred in the first place, not poor driving skills.

It's time to start taking better care of yourself - your diet, more rest etc. This may have been a bit of a wake-up call.

Good luck and take care of yourself!

[The David]

I have a certain fondness for 'screwing up' myself, so I'm sympathetic for you.

There's no value in overworking yourself. I mean, obviously there is some, or you wouldn't do it, but long-term value is a different story. Does your boss want an employee who is mentally drained from the job, instead of one who can work cheerfully because one is healthy and balanced? Probably not. And if, for whatever reason, your boss does, then you can guess what the people on this forum will tell you to do.