I am just about to start work as a research fellow. I was told that I needed to attract my own funding to do the research while in the job and I am just really worried about I will do day to day.

I mean I can imagine writing lots of research proposals in the first few weeks to get this funding. But when I wait the months for decisions, what would I do... Would I start doing research... I am just totally confused. Obviously they want me to have a healthy research output but if I spend the first 6 months or more waiting to see if I can get funding for my work, what would I have to do?

Any input experiences from people who have started their first job would be very much appreciated.

Thanks