Working in the government sector has always come with its unique set of challenges. The mission is meaningful, the work is critical, and there’s a deep sense of responsibility to serve the public. But over the past few months, it’s felt like the stakes have been higher, and the ground beneath us more unstable.
Public trust in government workers has ebbed and flowed, but the recent climate of skepticism has added a layer of pressure I didn’t fully anticipate. There’s a persistent narrative questioning the value of what we do, paired with ongoing efforts to reduce the workforce and force us back to the office. When your job is tied to the perception of its necessity, it’s hard not to feel like you’re constantly auditioning to prove your worth.
It’s an odd thing—balancing the knowledge that your work is important with the fear that it might not be seen that way by the people who make the decisions or the public at large. It’s not just job security at stake; it’s the sense of purpose that comes from knowing your efforts contribute to something larger.
Politics vs. Daily Work
One of the most difficult parts of the job in recent months has been trying to keep politics out of it. In an ideal world, IT work would be apolitical—systems either function or they don’t, and the work is focused on ensuring everything runs smoothly. But it’s hard to avoid the ripple effects of political shifts when you’re in the public sector.
We focus on what we can control: ensuring the systems are operational, the data is secure, and the users are supported. It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. I try to stay grounded in that mission, my way of weathering the uncertainty.
The Emotional Toll
That said, the past few days have taken an emotional toll. Job insecurity is a heavy weight to carry, especially when combined with shifting work environments. Moving from a hybrid setup back to full-time in-office work was a significant adjustment—one that came with added stress and challenges.
As someone navigating mental health and managing PTSD, the shift has been, and likely will continue to be particularly tough. There’s something about the office environment that can amplify existing struggles, even when the work itself is familiar.
Finding Balance
Through all of this, I’ve had to let go with the visual that I have no power over what happens. I can only focus on what’s within my control. Staying organized, carving out time for self-care, and leaning on my support network will continue to be key.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, I’m hopeful. The uncertainty hasn’t disappeared, but neither has the importance of what we do. I hold onto the belief that meaningful work will always have value, and that the effort we put into keeping systems running and data secure matters. We’ll see if I am saying this still in six month!
For anyone else navigating similar challenges, my advice is simple: focus on what you can control, and take care of yourself. It’s just like being a passenger on the plane, there’s nothing you can do, but you’re also not 100% sure the pilot wants to land safely.
Here’s to finding balance, staying resilient, and continuing to move forward.
