If you didn't know, I'm a server at a small town pizza restaurant. I just started serving there a couple of weeks ago and it was a bit of a process. My anxiety was intense because the table side of things are just a little scary. I am also working a second job at the moment, being a host. So, it wasn't like this was my first customer service job. But I digress, waiting tables was definitely different than what I was used to. I picked a place that was close to my house, and I wouldn't have to go far. I also picked this place because my older brother works there. So there are many reasons why I started, and many reasons why I decided to stick through the hardships of the learning process. My previous background made it easier but it didn't make it any less scary for me. I had to put on my brave face, make new friends at this new job, as well as satisfy customers to earn my income.
As of this post, the previous day was Friday. It was another killer day. But I did exercise before work because I knew I wouldn't afterwards. One of the servers is pregnant and I had to pick up extra tables because she's very exhausted. I got slammed and there were so many customers I felt like I was drowning. I had several larger tables as well as some needy ones that kept asking me for small things. I was running food, taking orders, putting them in, refilling drinks, making small talk. It was a lot. But something was different. Although I was very busy, I didn't feel the panic quite as bad as I had before. Something had changed and I believe it to be a little bit of experience!
You can read in a book or watch videos all day long but getting your hands on something directly drastically changes your views and application of the skills. I watched for two or three days, helping out here and there. But it was only when I went in, started doing the tables, making mistakes, and asking questions that I grew less anxious. Sometimes, like a juvenile bird, you have to take the plunge out of the nest. Get your bearings, fall out into the sky, and then open your wings and fly. You might make a couple crash landings, or have to learn the wind currents to make yourself less exhausted, but you will make it. We all have to make the plunge at some point in our life, sometimes over and over. For some, the anxiety of failing will always be there. But know with experience, you will learn there is light on the other side of the tunnel even when it's pitch black and you can't see a thing.
We all have some level of anxiety. It's what makes us animals, just like most of the other species on earth. It's supposed to help keep us alive. But what if it does the opposite? What if in a modern setting, it keeps you from living? Anxiety should be used like a tool, in moderation, NOT in control. If your anxiety controls you then you aren't really living. You won't do the things you want to do. You'll avoid adventure. You might shy away from making a new friend. If no matter what you do ends up not helping, if you are able, try and speak to a trusted individual or a professional. But make sure, even if you can get help right now, to step outside of your comfort bubble at least once a week. Even if that means just sitting in a public place.
I had made it through a hard day, I closed the server side of the restaurant and made decent money. I was exhausted and satisfied at my good days work. I met several customers who are kind, others who weren't so kind, and a couple interesting ones as well. It was an experience that I will remember for a long time. The hard days just keep getting easier to deal with. I'll knock on wood because I don't want to jinx next Friday! I also got free pizza and that's a bonus to me.
As always, I love each and every one of you in this community. We are all here to help each other and give encouragement when needed to make the world a brighter place. Everyone has their niche and a place to belong. Thanks for the read, upvote, or comment in advance.
Have a good one,
♥️ With lots of love 
