You’re so excited and happy – you got the job! But as your first day approaches, the excitement and anticipation turn into nervousness and anxiousness. The “new job jitters” are extremely common, and they can range from almost unnoticeable to downright debilitating. Some people actually get physically ill before their first day on the job. If you’re worried that you’ll make a mistake or somehow leave a bad first impression with your coworkers and boss, you don’t have to be. If you recognize and accept your new job jitters, you can do something about them and arrive at your first day feeling calm, cool, and confident. Here’s how.

Remember Why You Were Hired

You really need to give yourself a pep talk in order to combat your nervousness about your first day at work. If you’re worried about looking like a fool or doing something wrong, don’t be. Remind yourself that you were hired based on your competency. Your boss is confident in your abilities; if he wasn’t he wouldn’t have hired you. Remember that you have the experience and skills required to do your job and do it well.

Remember You’re Not Alone

You might be worried about what your coworkers will think about you, and you’re worried that you’ll somehow embarrass yourself in front of them. This is a feeling that is totally normal, and all your coworkers felt the exact same way when it was their first day on the job. Remember this: everyone was the new guy at some point in time. In most cases, people totally understand how nerve-wracking the first day can be, and they’re going to give you a break and help you, not judge you.

Prep Yourself

Don’t go into your first day without reviewing all your job-related material. Read the employee handbook, go over employment papers and company policies, and even brush up on your job-related skills by practicing or reading up on your industry. All of these things will help you feel more prepared for the day ahead. You’ll ensure that you do the things you’re supposed to, and you can come up with any questions you might have.

Give Yourself Extra Time

Whatever you do, don’t wake up late on the morning of your first day. You know you don’t want to be late for work, but you should also wake up much earlier than usual. Giving yourself plenty of extra time in the morning will help you avoid feeling rushed or not ready. You can make sure you look good and eat a good breakfast, and you’ll have time to deal with any unexpected delays like a stained shirt or popped button.

Take Deep Breaths

Whenever you’re feeling particularly nervous, deep breathing is a great way to relax your body and slow your heart rate back to normal. As you get ready for work and approach the front door, take some slow, deep breaths in and out through your nose. Concentrate on your breathing. When you act calm, you’ll be calm!

About the author: Anthony Curran is a dedicated father and freelance writer who works for APPi printing in Miami. He has had quite a few jobs in his time and is an expert on ‘new-job jitters’ and wants to help others shake them as well.