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I'm in the depths of this, have been since March (this last time). I now spend most of my time fighting a pitched battle with myself, in order make baby steps

I'm in the depths of this, have been since March (this last time). I now spend most of my time fighting a pitched battle with myself, in order make baby steps in the direction of work. But, I get stuck when it's time to actually submit a resume or contact a hiring manager. My biggest sticking point right now is preparing a convincing story for the interviewers. I'm just not ready to bullshit strangers about lofty 'career goals' or how excited I am to be a part of their 'company's growth journey'. Taking time off has helped, but it's also run its course: I've done this so many times now, I can no longer convince myself that next job won't lead me back here.

dwaltrip 5y ago
Would it work to tell them you needed some time away from work to treat some serious health issues, and that you are doing better and are ready to get back into the swing of things? IMO burnout is a serious health issue. Also, I don’t think career goals have to be “lofty”. Showing up every day and doing good work should be enough in a healthy work environment.
- WalterSear 5y ago
  Ah, I'm not worried about explaining any gap in my resume: I'm having trouble putting on my interview face. Career goals do have to be lofty during interviews, just like the company you are applying with has to be destined for certain and boundless success, and the interviewer wise, profound and physically attractive. :) Seriously though, job interviews are inherently processes of competitive elimination. A lack of enthusiasm, or of clear professional goals that involve the role involved, are significant red flags. I'm at a loss as to how to overcome this: I've had too much difficulty to truly believe that work environments can be healthy, or how to hide this from interviewers.