How can I relax and focus on work when we all know that there will be more big layoffs?
If at least we had some any insights when they will happen, how soon?
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The drunken captain and his EC are running USAA with the thought of “the beatings and layoffs will continue until morale improves.”
I should have utilized EAP much sooner. Instead, I let things get to a boiling point and now I don't have a job!
As a 20 yr employee, I agree with the later comment, i also went to dr for meds and the dr mentioned lots of Usaa employees on meds for anxiety and depression! He asked what are they doing to you guys over there! And yes, very strangely USAA is all about public speaking to be successful. It amazes me how sometimes I listen to these talkers and some of what they say is bs! But yet, because they sound smart, people think they are! These are the people that aren’t productive and dont bring any value (just bs). Yet the employees that are hard workers and know their stuff are overlooked. Funny how that works out! Almost like USAA needs to hire nothing but bs’ing car salesmen if thats who they allow to become successful. And if you question anything or dont drink the koolaid, they are quick to say things like “maybe the isnt the right company for you”! Perhaps its not, if its so wrong to think outside the box and question things like when you hear “we’ve always done it that way”!
They are not going to tell you when the next layoffs will happen. If they did there would be a (bigger) rush for the doors. Management will take advantage of people who feel they have no other options to get you to do things you otherwise would not agree to.
The people that understand that they DO have other options have either already left or are actively looking for their next job. USAA is no longer the company it once was. The once prized culture is no more. Morale is at an all time low. The leadership team is a pathetic joke. Once great benefits are sliding ever lower.
All of this leads to higher stress levels. Just remember, you have options. If your job is stressing you out then start looking for another one. Seriously. No job is worth coming down with some stress related illness. Nobody will thank you for it, certainly not the management of this once great company.
I no longer have faith in my ability to perform my work in the way my leadership wants. I work in a position they wish to fire. I continue to put in 50+ hour work weeks, but I'm told I need to demonstrate the worth of my position. My acute anxiety and sadness have been brought on by these conflicting messages in the requirements of my role. I adored my job at USAA. When I was hired on, I was so proud to be working for this company. But it's not the same USAA I signed up for 15 years ago. I have watched some outstanding individuals depart in the past few years, and I no longer see any military veterans in senior leadership.
I went to a doc in town who commented about how many USAA workers are medicated for anxiety, depression, panic disorder. The disproportionate amount of pressure to be a perfect public speaker doesn’t help. Compelling speaking seems to launch or fail careers more than solid work.
I know how you feel. I have worked there for a bit, and over the course of time have developed crippling anxiety with a side of major depression. I am on a long list of medications just to make it through the day. None of this would not have been possible without USAA in my corner. Excuse me while I go cry some more.
My personal plan when I have to RTO is throwing myself down several flights of stairs and filing for worker's comp.
None of this is worth your health and your happiness.
Trust me. I have had a very long IT career. You don't want to know how long! Yes, decades. But I will not say how many. :-)
You will handle this. You will be as intelligent, resilient, creative and productive as you always are. Do not wish anything negative on anyone because even letting that little bit "in" will bring you down. Do not let anything or anyone "get to you" like that.
Smile, because I have read that it has been scientifically proven to help you in many, many ways. And since reading that and trying it, I noticed that it is true!
Go to a movie and laugh until your sides burst!
You are better than all of this. Study. Figure out finances. Ask for help (I know a lot of us are reluctant to do that, but I have learned to ask and be ever grateful to those who have helped). It is cliche to say that you will be stronger from this (but I know I have become strong from this and so much more that I never thought I could handle).
And remember.
Never do this to another human being. Be better than what has just happened or will happen to you.
No point worrying about stuff like that when nothing is in your control. Instead of thinking about the inevitable, what are you doing to prepare? Use your EdAssist dollars to get a certification. Use the free LinkedIn learning to take new courses. Start getting your resume in order. The way I see it, you and only you are in control of your happiness.
I hope I am next. Please happen before I leave on my own.
What department are you in?
Do you exercise? Have hobbies? I would try to mix work with relaxation. Also, if you have some "pet projects", I would focus on those. Study in anticipation of either improving your work there or finding work elsewhere. Socialize outside of the work environment so you pull yourself away from the environment at the root source of your stress is also a good thing. I know what you are going through, but dwelling on it will not help.