Mr. Wang asks: I've been working in Beijing for nearly two years since graduating from university. My situation is dire: high work pressure, poor performance, no labor contract, a base salary barely covering food, and relying on family support for rent. Lacking experience, I feel adrift and insecure about changing jobs. My parents are deeply dissatisfied with my circumstances here and repeatedly urge me to return home. I'm torn and unsure whether to stay in Beijing.
Over the past month, I've been deeply depressed, frequently suffering from insomnia, and feeling utterly lost about how to make this decision.
Expert Commentary: Mr. Wang's dilemma is common among new professionals—a clash between ideals and reality. Every recent graduate enters society brimming with dreams, yet upon joining the workforce, they often face prolonged struggles with job scarcity, low pay, complex workplace dynamics, and unstable living conditions. This leads some to doubt themselves or resent their circumstances.
Mr. Wang's psychological state reflects a form of maladjustment to society. In this situation, he needs to recalibrate his mindset and rebuild his self-confidence. It is advisable to view challenges through a dynamic lens rather than a static one—that is, to see current difficulties as temporary and as opportunities for growth. In practice, Mr. Wang should thoroughly understand his strengths and weaknesses, conduct an accurate self-assessment, and use this foundation to develop a phased life plan.
The job Mr. Wang initially secures may not be ideal, but if he uses it to address his basic needs while continuously enhancing his value through further education and skill development, he can lay a solid foundation for future opportunities. By proactively leveraging resources within his current role to improve interpersonal skills and professional competencies, he builds a strong base for securing more desirable positions later. As his capabilities grow, so does his confidence, opening up more choices.