At work - not knowing the answer

[Meowface]

This might seem like an odd topic but I hope it fits here. Does anyone else with anxiety struggle to admit that they don’t know the answer to a problem or question??

Im in a corporate role with very unclear processes and procedures. Last year when I was suffering badly with anxiety and in hindsight was very unwell I made some poor decisions because I felt pressured to have the answers.

I’m determined not to do that this year, but as a people pleaser I’m finding it hard to say “I don’t know”. Other people seem to have no problems doing this but I compulsively feel like I should be the one to fix the problem - even if I’m not really fixing it!! Any thoughts or experience with this??

[George81]

Hi Meowface, I can relate. I too work in a corporate environment and people literally come to me for answers. If I don't know something I generally ask if it is okay for me to spend some time reviewing their question or request to be able to provide the correct response. I try not to use the phrase 'I don't know' as I can generally find the answer or ask a colleague or my team leader for assistance or to point me in the right direction. I hope the office you work in is supportive of asking for assistance and that if required you can take a bit of time to formulate your response. Best wishes George.

[Rabbit33]

Hi Meowface,

When i worked in a corporate environment and people came to me for the answer. If i didn't know, I simply said, i'll find out for you. We only learn by asking questions and we're not expected to know everything. It's a part of problem solving. Ask someone else within your team if they can assist, google, trial and error.
So long as you give it your best shot and your helping whom ever it is out who is asking the question, i'm sure they'll be happy with your efforts. 🙂

[Meowface]

Thanks these replies have made me realise I’m actually not very supported in my workplace. What triggered my anxiety yesterday was that I was trying to tell a superior that I was struggling with a decision - and didn’t want to make a bad mistake like I did last year (and am constantly reminded about it). Her comment as I was leaving her office was “just get it right the first time meowface”. Obviously she said my real name! But it was quite intimidating.

I was so deflated and after reflection and your comments about how a workplace SHOULD be supportive when your trying your best, it’s put this in perspective for me.