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AAC - Work - Carer Uncertainty or Change - Self-Worth & Job Identity - Q3 (Alessandra) · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: When so much of your time, energy, and identity goes into your job, it makes complete sense that it becomes a big part of how you see yourself.
• 0:08
  SPEAKER_00: And a lot of people find their job quietly becomes their main source of purpose, connection, and self-worth, often without even realizing it.
• 0:17
  SPEAKER_00: And that works until it doesn't.
• 0:19
  SPEAKER_00: And career changes, uncertainty, or just a tough week can shake everything when your job is carrying all of that weight.
• 0:26
  SPEAKER_00: Now your job can be a really meaningful part of your life, but when it becomes the only place you get your sense of worth, it puts a lot of pressure on something that is ultimately outside of your control.
• 0:35
  SPEAKER_00: And diversifying your interests is a way of spreading that weight more evenly.
• 0:39
  SPEAKER_00: So think of it like not putting all your eggs in one basket.
• 0:43
  SPEAKER_00: When you have things outside of work that brings a sense of achievement, connection, or just enjoyment, your whole sense of self becomes more grounded and more resilient.
• 0:51
  SPEAKER_00: And small consistent engagement with things that matter to you outside of work builds a stronger foundation over time.
• 0:58
  SPEAKER_00: Now, a useful starting point is thinking about balance across the week and not just trying to fill in spare time but intentionally protecting it.
• 1:06
  SPEAKER_00: So that might look like blocking out one afternoon a week for something completely unrelated to work.
• 1:11
  SPEAKER_00: It could be a hobby you've let slide, time outdoors, something creative, something social or something physical.
• 1:18
  SPEAKER_00: If you're not sure where to start, think in three simple categories.
• 1:22
  SPEAKER_00: So one, something that moves your body, two, something that connects you with others, and three, something that's purely for enjoyment.
• 1:29
  SPEAKER_00: The point here is to build a life with more sources of meaning in it, so when work gets harder and uncertain, you still have solid ground to stand on.
• 1:37
  SPEAKER_00: And if your job has become so tied to your self-worth that the thought of losing it or even just changing it feels genuinely distressing, that's worth exploring further.
• 1:46
  SPEAKER_00: And a therapist can really help here, particularly around how your identity and values have developed over time.
• 1:52
  SPEAKER_00: And the app has further resources to support you with career uncertainty or change for you to take a look at when you're ready.
• 1:58
  SPEAKER_00: And if you're thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.