Article May 1, 2006 Issue

Life out of the fast lane

BY KATJA BRESSETTE

I FELT PRETTY COOL as I sped down the autobahn in my bright red, expensive company car, passing by all the slower cars. I was on a company business trip to another city in Germany. Dressed in a smart suit and new designer shoes, I should have felt on top of the world.

Instead, I felt uneasy. My job in the marketing department of a large automobile company was intense. I'd been having trouble getting along with my boss, and there were other stresses in the department. Everyone worked hard to be noticed—including me. As a result, I'd suffered off and on with bouts of anxiety, in which my heart would race and I would feel totally out of control. And that night in my hotel room, as I lay on my bed. I experienced the severest panic attack I'd ever had.

I had a vague idea this had something to do with my arrogance and feelings of superiority about my job and position. But beneath everything, I actually felt deeply unhappy and dissatisfied with my work. I longed to do something more creative, yet I was frightened of change.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

About the author

Although originally from Marburg, Germany, Katja Bressette has spent the last two years living and working in Boston. She's a recent newlywed and enjoys traveling and reading.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Poem
'Peace, be still'
May 1, 2006
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit