Write a fictional short story of at least 500 words about a middle-aged man named John who must confront his deep-rooted fear of change when he loses his long-time job and is forced to start over in a new industry. Your story should include vivid descriptions of John's internal struggle as he grapples with anxiety and self-doubt, and should also incorporate at least two external factors that challenge his comfort zone and force him to take risks. Consider developing John's character beyond his fear of change by including details about his personal life, relationships, and hobbies, and experiment with different narrative techniques (such as flashbacks or foreshadowing) to deepen the story's emotional impact. Additionally, pay attention to the pacing and structure of your story, striving for a clear beginning, middle, and end that build towards a satisfying resolution.
This prompt doesn't seem malicious.