Nerves about new role

mechanic2 · 22 Feb 2024

Hi everyone,

I'm in the very fortunate position to be starting in a few months with a TOC as a trainee driver. I have been in my current job for about 10 years and now that my resignation is in and I know I'm leaving, while I am very excited, I am absolutely bricking it and am feeling all sorts of emotions (anxiety, worry etc).
I'm over the moon to be starting as a train driver but leaving something I know is "comfortable", something I am established in and know what I am doing when I turn up, is a hard thing to leave.

As a person, I often over analyse things and turn very good, positive situations into negative worrisome ones. I think I'm just trying to get others' opinions and experiences on this, and hoping I'm not alone in these feelings?
If anybody is willing to share their experiences and emotions would be a great help, of course only if people are comfortable to do so.
Thanks

RailUK Forums

Jme_Bud · 22 Feb 2024

You'll be absolutely fine. The analytical mindset you talk about is likely what secured your role as a driver and you will more than likely be a great driver as a result. Most of your classmates will be feeling the similar feelings. If they're not I would see that as more of a concern.

Moving to a new job is a big deal and your mind is preparing yourself for that change. Thank your mind for it's caution then tell it not to worry because you have it under control!

mechanic2 · 22 Feb 2024

Jme_Bud said:
You'll be absolutely fine. The analytical mindset you talk about is likely what secured your role as a driver and you will more than likely be a great driver as a result. Most of your classmates will be feeling the similar feelings. If they're not I would see that as more of a concern.

Moving to a new job is a big deal and your mind is preparing yourself for that change. Thank your mind for it's caution then tell it not to worry because you have it under control!

Thanks for that - you're probably right!

whoosh · 22 Feb 2024

When I started as a Trainee driver, not so much, as I'd not been in my previous position all that long.
When I swapped TOCs as a qualified driver though after 10 years, then yes, all of the worry and anxiety you are feeling. Will I like the new people? Will I like the new management? Will I like the union reps? Will I like the work (I was moving from Intercity with a guard to Driver Only suburban)? Will I like the trains - where I was moving to had a lot of old stuff - Will they be heaps of junk?

Turned out all was good! But definitely know how you feel.

Smelliott · 22 Feb 2024

Sounds like you'll make a great driver, it's the complacent ones that come unstuck! The training is very thorough and designed to teach you absolutely everything you need to know, if that helps. Totally normal to feel anxious though. "Feel the fear then do it anyway!"

The Puddock · 22 Feb 2024

I can understand how you feel. Last year I applied for and was offered a role outside the rail industry - something completely different and new to me - after being unhappy at work for quite a few years. I have spent 20+ years working for one company and would have been taking a leap into the unknown, leaving behind all my friends and colleagues as well as leaving the security of the railway pension scheme etc...

In the end the terror of getting out of my comfort zone and trying to restart a new career elsewhere overcame me and I didn't take up the job offer. Now six months later I'm still unhappy and I bitterly regret that decision. I should have taken the chance.

mechanic2 · 22 Feb 2024

whoosh said:
When I started as a Trainee driver, not so much, as I'd not been in my previous position all that long.
When I swapped TOCs as a qualified driver though after 10 years, then yes, all of the worry and anxiety you are feeling. Will I like the new people? Will I like the new management? Will I like the union reps? Will I like the work (I was moving from Intercity with a guard to Driver Only suburban)? Will I like the trains - where I was moving to had a lot of old stuff - Will they be heaps of junk?

Turned out all was good! But definitely know how you feel.

Yes those are exactly my worries too (minus the driving aspects). Thanks for the response, makes me feel a lot better.

Smelliott said:
Sounds like you'll make a great driver, it's the complacent ones that come unstuck! The training is very thorough and designed to teach you absolutely everything you need to know, if that helps. Totally normal to feel anxious though. "Feel the fear then do it anyway!"

Great quote!

The Puddock said:
I can understand how you feel. Last year I applied for and was offered a role outside the rail industry - something completely different and new to me - after being unhappy at work for quite a few years. I have spent 20+ years working for one company and would have been taking a leap into the unknown, leaving behind all my friends and colleagues as well as leaving the security of the railway pension scheme etc...

In the end the terror of getting out of my comfort zone and trying to restart a new career elsewhere overcame me and I didn't take up the job offer. Now six months later I'm still unhappy and I bitterly regret that decision. I should have taken the chance.

Very honest of you - really appreciate the reply.

I hope all works out for you for your future.

AntoniC · 22 Feb 2024

I`m not involved in the Railway industry at all, I am a life time Civil Servant who last year , after 35 years in HMRC at the same grade took a job on promotion in the Home Office to do something completely different and a lot more challenging.
I had exactly the same thoughts as you, but now 3 months in I don`t regret changing jobs as I was stale in my old job.
Give it a go, if it doesn`t work out for you (although I hope it does) you won`t have any regrets for at least trying.
Good luck !

Sun Chariot · 22 Feb 2024

mechanic2 said:
Hi everyone,

I'm in the very fortunate position to be starting in a few months with a TOC as a trainee driver. I have been in my current job for about 10 years and now that my resignation is in and I know I'm leaving, while I am very excited, I am absolutely bricking it and am feeling all sorts of emotions (anxiety, worry etc).
I'm over the moon to be starting as a train driver but leaving something I know is "comfortable", something I am established in and know what I am doing when I turn up, is a hard thing to leave.

As a person, I often over analyse things and turn very good, positive situations into negative worrisome ones. I think I'm just trying to get others' opinions and experiences on this, and hoping I'm not alone in these feelings?
If anybody is willing to share their experiences and emotions would be a great help, of course only if people are comfortable to do so.
Thanks

Firstly, - well done for securing that role in what feels like a challenging jobs market.

A change in one's "comfort zone" - routines and knowledge - is entirely normal and it is something I've felt throughout my career, spanning 7 organisations across 3 different sectors.

I am sure you'll find an excellent learning & support network, throughout the induction, training and ongoing development in your new job. Best of luck!

Seehof · 22 Feb 2024

I too felt like you do when I started as a trainee driver. There is nothing wrong with that, on the contrary it will ensure you get to understand everything perfectly by not feeling happy until you do. Take each day learning as it comes, enjoys those days and your new trainee colleagues. I still am proud and feel it is a huge honour to have driven trains for Northern and TPE. When you have passed out and have got up early one day and see the most wonderful sunrise you will realise you have one of the best and most enjoyable jobs in the world. Very best wishes and enjoy. Never ever be afraid to ask questions.

mechanic2 · 22 Feb 2024

Thank you to all for the posts so far! It's a huge weight off to know I'm not alone and others feel/felt the same!

Driver2B · 22 Feb 2024

Welcome to your new role!

Just to underline a few points above, you have been selected for showing the skills which they require, which would include being analytical and risk-averse. As said above, complacency is a huge risk on the railway, and complacent trainees/staff will cause the railway a lot more problems than risk-averse trainees/staff.

Don't worry, but enjoy the challenge! Make the most of the privilege!
Work hard during your training with a keen attitude. And always remain risk-averse for your entire railway career - it will keep you, your passengers and colleagues safe, not to mention keep your licence clean and enjoy a much easier work life!

Good luck and welcome to the industy!

Dieseldriver · 22 Feb 2024

mechanic2 said:
Hi everyone,

I'm in the very fortunate position to be starting in a few months with a TOC as a trainee driver. I have been in my current job for about 10 years and now that my resignation is in and I know I'm leaving, while I am very excited, I am absolutely bricking it and am feeling all sorts of emotions (anxiety, worry etc).
I'm over the moon to be starting as a train driver but leaving something I know is "comfortable", something I am established in and know what I am doing when I turn up, is a hard thing to leave.

As a person, I often over analyse things and turn very good, positive situations into negative worrisome ones. I think I'm just trying to get others' opinions and experiences on this, and hoping I'm not alone in these feelings?
If anybody is willing to share their experiences and emotions would be a great help, of course only if people are comfortable to do so.
Thanks

The fact that you’re posting this demonstrates you have a good attitude towards the job already. Work hard, put the effort in and ask if you’re unsure, you’ll be fine.
The vast majority of Trainees/Drivers that have issues have a bad attitude towards the job.
Best of luck!

Horizon22 · 22 Feb 2024

I think it would be strange - and a little concerning - if you were not a little nervous! It’s actually a good thing because whilst you’re looking forward to it there is of course an element of the unknown and you’re outside your comfort zone. It’s a big step and a highly responsible role you’ll be doing. This means you are not complacent and when going into a rules-based, safety critical role like signaller or driver that is the right attitude to have.

Congratulations on making the cut and all the best for your training!

AndySV1K · 22 Feb 2024

I’m in a similar position, I’ve been running my own company for nearly 20 years and next week I start as a trainee driver. Absolutely massive change in my life and it’s definitely had my brain doing overtime. It hit me today when I left a customer I’ve had since the company started and it suddenly dawned on me that it might be the last time I go to their premises!
But through all the stress and second guesses on my decisions, I’m really looking forward to the change and to the challenge. I think it will all work out amazingly well for both of us.

ComUtoR · 22 Feb 2024

Started training at 30.
Changed jobs 3 times since becoming a Driver

Never looked back.

20yrs later... I'm still here.

Absolutely get out whatever you put in. It's always going to bring trepidation when changing jobs and making life changing decisions and in all honesty, it doesn't always work out. However, you got to grab life by the dangly bits and work hard to achieve those goals. Totally worth it.

mechanic2 · 22 Feb 2024

Thank you to everyone who has posted in the thread and who have dmd me.
It's been overwhelming to see and read that people are feeling the exact same way to me regarding training and starting a new role and leaving my comfort zone.

Since posting this morning I feel such a huge weight off my shoulders and am very grateful for that.

I also hope that this thread is of use to others in the same boat as myself and everyone who has commented.

ratbag · 22 Feb 2024

mechanic2 said:
Hi everyone,

I'm in the very fortunate position to be starting in a few months with a TOC as a trainee driver. I have been in my current job for about 10 years and now that my resignation is in and I know I'm leaving, while I am very excited, I am absolutely bricking it and am feeling all sorts of emotions (anxiety, worry etc).
I'm over the moon to be starting as a train driver but leaving something I know is "comfortable", something I am established in and know what I am doing when I turn up, is a hard thing to leave.

As a person, I often over analyse things and turn very good, positive situations into negative worrisome ones. I think I'm just trying to get others' opinions and experiences on this, and hoping I'm not alone in these feelings?
If anybody is willing to share their experiences and emotions would be a great help, of course only if people are comfortable to do so.
Thanks

The modules are fail, and you're done. Lots of hard work ahead.

Dieseldriver · 22 Feb 2024

ratbag said:
The modules are fail, and you're done. Lots of hard work ahead.

Helpful way to put their mind at ease…..

Smelliott · 22 Feb 2024

Nobody who puts any effort in fails, at least in my experience, and this person is clearly not just going to try and wing it.

Archvile · 22 Feb 2024

Dieseldriver said:
Helpful way to put their mind at ease…..

Not to mention wildly inaccurate.

Kelki · 22 Feb 2024

You can do it!

Val3ntine · 23 Feb 2024

Archvile said:
Not to mention wildly inaccurate.

Very inaccurate!

Ngoodman123@li · 9 Mar 2024

How has the course been so far? I will be starting a course soon so wanted to seek any advice that people have to hit the ground running.

I am too feeling nervous but understand that this is a life change opportunity for me and my family.

mechanic2 · 9 Mar 2024

I don't start until April mate.
I'm definitely feeling so much more positve about it now

As you say, it's a life changing job so grab it with both hands and we will be happier in the future!

Nerves about new role

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