When the world feels uncertain and work feels impossible

Mackenzie Waldron is a writer focused on ensuring workers have the information and resources they need to thrive. She explores topics that surface on Empower Work’s free, confidential text line and brings research-backed approaches to support you.

There are moments when the weight of the world feels especially heavy. The news may feel relentless and the future may feel unclear. And somehow, in the middle of all that, you’re still expected to show up to work, answer emails, meet deadlines, and carry on like nothing is wrong.  

If work feels impossible right now, you’re not alone.

Going to work when it feels like the world is falling apart

Global events, political unrest, economic instability, technological change (like the rise of AI), community trauma—these things are hard to leave at the door when you go to work. It can be emotionally draining and take a toll on your mental health. Even if you try to push it back, these things affect your performance—how you concentrate, how you show up, and how motivated you feel.

Remember, it is normal to feel burned out or stressed during not-so-normal times. 

For many workers—especially those in lower-wage jobs and those in caregiving roles—uncertainty can cause feelings that go beyond daily stress and anxiety. The pressure to keep pushing through these emotions at work  isn’t just stressful—for many, it feels like survival. 

When your focus feels scattered and your motivation is low, know that it is not a personal flaw and that you are having a human response to experiences that keep our nervous systems on high alert. 

Why the advice “just push through” doesn’t work

Work culture often tells you to power through, remain productive, and to “leave your problems at the door”. But when the world feels heavy and uncertain, our nervous systems are not built to allow us to just push through without any support or breaks. 

Taking care of yourself or reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness, laziness, or unproductiveness. It is actually a sign of strength—to recognize that your tank is empty and that you need recharging. 

During moments of uncertainty, you may notice: 

• You’re feeling overwhelmed by tasks that used to seem manageable.

• You’re struggling to care about the work that you’re doing when the outside noise is loud.

• You’re feeling exhausted or burned out at work.

• You’re more irritable, or less social with your coworkers and employer.

• You’re wondering if anyone else feels this way, or if you’re the only one struggling.

Allow yourself to have a human moment

Recognizing that you’re not okay and reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness— it is a sign of strength and it means you want to take the steps to care for yourself. Prioritizing yourself (without self-sabotage) is beneficial to you, your loved ones, and your workplace, and can lead to a more productive version of yourself. 

This can look like: 

• Acknowledging your feelings—exhaustion, fear, sadness, helplessness.

• Focusing on what is in your control and what feels manageable to you.

• Taking breaks when you can, even if they’re short.

• Acknowledging that some days, showing up is the accomplishment.

Unstable times can be extremely rough, and sometimes there is no quick or easy fix. But it’s important to remember to take it easy on yourself and allow yourself a moment of humanity. 

You don’t have to navigate this alone

Moments of uncertainty can feel extremely isolating. Many people worry that speaking honestly about how they’re doing at work will make them seem unprofessional or unreliable. But it doesn’t. And no one should have to bring these worries to work. That’s why Empower Work exists—to provide a safe space to discuss these issues outside of the workplace. 

You don’t have to have all the answers in order to reach out for support—or even know exactly what you need. Sometimes it starts with being heard by someone who will listen deeply to your experience. 

We hear from people every day who are trying to hold it together at work while the world feels like it’s unraveling. They reach out feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of their next step—and often leave feeling a little less alone, a little more grounded, and more ready to take their next step. 

If work feels impossible right now, you’re not alone. Text 510-674-1414 to reach a trained peer counselor at Empower Work.

Experiencing a tough work issue?

Text 51 0-674-1414 for free, confidential support from a trained peer counselor.