Gemotions

The new assignment was to become the head of customer service. For years he had worked alone, happily, writing code. He loathed the idea of being the face of the company. A deep dread settled within him, like a lead weight.

He spent the weekend locked in his apartment, avoiding calls and emails. He rehearsed conversations in his head, struggling to find the right words. His appetite disappeared.

On Monday morning, as he walked towards the office building, his legs felt heavy. He could barely breathe. The thought of facing irate customers and handling complaints filled him with a chilling fear.