Describe your work ethic. Who taught you how to work? What would you want your children and grandchildren to learn from your example?
Like all good things in my life, I was taught by my parents to work. I knew that nothing comes for free early on. I knew that good things took work and good work--no matter what kind it was--was valuable. I never enjoyed the work my mom would assign us as kids--usually it involved yard work, weeding, etc. and that just made me hot, sticky and cranky. But I knew my parents were hard workers. They had worked all their lives. They told us frequently about the kind of things they did--even for fun as they grew up and if they wanted anything, they had to work for it.
I would hope my kid and grandkids knew that any honorable work is worthwhile. I have always appreciated that my dad--a mechanic long before he was a business owner--worked hard a ta dirty job and that he took pride in being good at what he did There was not a college degree that would have done that for him. just his own hard work and diligent honest effort. My mom worked to make her own clothes from the time she could earn money. She developed her mind and used it well as she worked for others before she finally worked with my dad to build a successful business. They were successful together because they matched one another in their ethical practices focusing on honesty, and good hard labor to do what they needed to serve their customers. They had a slew of loyal customers too, when they finally retired. They didn't cut corners and they followed the rules. they worked hard for many many years to build what they did.
I hope my own family will see the same in us. I didn't have the same work history that Genius Golfer has had but he is just as hard a worker in his field as my parents were in theirs. When the kids were young, he worked up to three jobs so that I could be home full time raising our children. That was important to him. He grew up with a single mom who had to work to support their family and he missed having her in the home like I was able to for The Boy and The Girl. I always appreciated that about him and worked hard in my sphere to see that his sacrifice fro our family was worth it. sometimes I think it would have been easier to have a job somewhere with a paycheck to show what my efforts were worth, but now I have the kids to show that payoff. It is a good exchange. Hard work, no matter where it is done is worthwhile.
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Sunday, March 25, 2018
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
#52 Stories--Story #16
What is something you taught yourself to do without much help from anyone else?
When I first went back to work in 2013, I was worried that I didn't know nearly enough to do basic office work. I was right--and wrong--about that!
I began working at a company where the office manager, Travis, was a BIG fan of Microsoft's Excel program-so much so that he would write documents in that spreadsheet program instead of using Word. Consequently, I needed to learn or fail with Excel.
I found I watched a LOT of YouTube videos on "how to ________ in Excel". and I really did learn quite a bit. I sued the help feature too and learned as I went along. I have gotten faster and more competent as I have practiced what I have learned. Travis has been gone from the company now almost four years and I have had to adjust, remodel, or rewrite many of the documents or tools he had left for me. And I am doing pretty good with it all, if I do say so myself.
I have also implemented Microsoft Word as soften as I need to rewrite something that is actually a document--instead of using a spreadsheet to write on. But I have also learned to use Excel to create the forms and tools for checklists with some certainty.
There are surely easier ways to learn but being thrown in the deep end of the pool helped me to figure out how to swim in the office pool pretty fast.
When I first went back to work in 2013, I was worried that I didn't know nearly enough to do basic office work. I was right--and wrong--about that!
I began working at a company where the office manager, Travis, was a BIG fan of Microsoft's Excel program-so much so that he would write documents in that spreadsheet program instead of using Word. Consequently, I needed to learn or fail with Excel.
I found I watched a LOT of YouTube videos on "how to ________ in Excel". and I really did learn quite a bit. I sued the help feature too and learned as I went along. I have gotten faster and more competent as I have practiced what I have learned. Travis has been gone from the company now almost four years and I have had to adjust, remodel, or rewrite many of the documents or tools he had left for me. And I am doing pretty good with it all, if I do say so myself.
I have also implemented Microsoft Word as soften as I need to rewrite something that is actually a document--instead of using a spreadsheet to write on. But I have also learned to use Excel to create the forms and tools for checklists with some certainty.
There are surely easier ways to learn but being thrown in the deep end of the pool helped me to figure out how to swim in the office pool pretty fast.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
It's A Process
This week has been incredibly busy at work. Monday our new office lady started. Eventually she will be the full time gal and I'll go back to PT and filling in. I can't wait.
So far, she already is showing more gumption than I expected. She will be a great fit. She is already making herself at home--and by that I mean she was singing along to her Pandora Disney station today in a voice loud enough you could hear her throughout the office.
She caught up all the "to do piles" for me already. I had some things that I showed her how to do once, she asked a few questions throughout and she was off and running. I was struggling by the end of the day to keep ahead of her. Eventually, she caught me and I had nothing else to give her to do. she took over the phones and the routing/dispatching of the drivers already. This is going to be awesome.
I've been at this job for over a year already, and I still feel a little intimidated by some attitudes that flare up at time. I'm such an "avoid confrontation at all costs" personality that I've just learned to roll with it. She doesn't put up with much. She'll be kind but she is no shrinking violet. That is awesome.
I may end up being just an on-call embroidery lady, a go-between for the scrub stores, and a paperwork/data entry pusher for our Home Solutions end. That would be really awesome.
In the meantime, the drivers are in good hands. She is a chatterer, but a dependable worker too. She is a natural on the phone. She'll be just fine. Awesome.
So far, she already is showing more gumption than I expected. She will be a great fit. She is already making herself at home--and by that I mean she was singing along to her Pandora Disney station today in a voice loud enough you could hear her throughout the office.
She caught up all the "to do piles" for me already. I had some things that I showed her how to do once, she asked a few questions throughout and she was off and running. I was struggling by the end of the day to keep ahead of her. Eventually, she caught me and I had nothing else to give her to do. she took over the phones and the routing/dispatching of the drivers already. This is going to be awesome.
I've been at this job for over a year already, and I still feel a little intimidated by some attitudes that flare up at time. I'm such an "avoid confrontation at all costs" personality that I've just learned to roll with it. She doesn't put up with much. She'll be kind but she is no shrinking violet. That is awesome.
I may end up being just an on-call embroidery lady, a go-between for the scrub stores, and a paperwork/data entry pusher for our Home Solutions end. That would be really awesome.
In the meantime, the drivers are in good hands. She is a chatterer, but a dependable worker too. She is a natural on the phone. She'll be just fine. Awesome.
Monday, June 9, 2014
Just a Wild and Crazy Day...at Work
I got to work this morning excited since our new office gal was starting today. Her starting work means I will soon be back to part time hours. Yeah!
Then about 11 AM the power went out suddenly. From the back of our warehouse doors we could see the power line down over the road. No bueno. According to the power company's recorded message they expected the power to be back on about 2:30. So I did what I could working just with the files and paper and the phone. I forwarded the office number to the spare driver's cell phone (luckily before the battery backup for the phone system gave out) so I could still take calls. I could still contact the drivers too, I just couldn't access our routing system.
Finally, at about 3 PM the power was still not back, one of the guys stopped at the Rocky Mountain Power trucks and asked their workers what kind of time frame they were thinking. He told him about 8 PM. Well. That doesn't work well.
So I messaged the new girl, Ella, that she should do her drug testing in Orem and then head home fro the power was still out and not expected again until tonight. I'd see her in the morning. She was thrilled--her stuff is still in boxes after only getting her from California Sunday.
Then I took the work cell phone and was able to pull up the routing software and our internet based patient database on my computer at home and simply "worked from home" for a few hours. I had messaged the drivers to call my cell number when they were getting close to the warehouse and I'd run down to the office and get them the Utah county paperwork that still needed to be done.
It actually worked fine. All thing considered, we could still take care of our patients--if we had to without power. But it sure easier when we have the computers, printers, phones and all the access to the internet we use every day.
Then about 11 AM the power went out suddenly. From the back of our warehouse doors we could see the power line down over the road. No bueno. According to the power company's recorded message they expected the power to be back on about 2:30. So I did what I could working just with the files and paper and the phone. I forwarded the office number to the spare driver's cell phone (luckily before the battery backup for the phone system gave out) so I could still take calls. I could still contact the drivers too, I just couldn't access our routing system.
Finally, at about 3 PM the power was still not back, one of the guys stopped at the Rocky Mountain Power trucks and asked their workers what kind of time frame they were thinking. He told him about 8 PM. Well. That doesn't work well.
So I messaged the new girl, Ella, that she should do her drug testing in Orem and then head home fro the power was still out and not expected again until tonight. I'd see her in the morning. She was thrilled--her stuff is still in boxes after only getting her from California Sunday.
Then I took the work cell phone and was able to pull up the routing software and our internet based patient database on my computer at home and simply "worked from home" for a few hours. I had messaged the drivers to call my cell number when they were getting close to the warehouse and I'd run down to the office and get them the Utah county paperwork that still needed to be done.
It actually worked fine. All thing considered, we could still take care of our patients--if we had to without power. But it sure easier when we have the computers, printers, phones and all the access to the internet we use every day.
Saturday, May 31, 2014
Rough Week
Maybe it is the realization that my "baby" is a senior in high school now, technically, at least. Or because I cannot wait for the new office gal to start work on the 9th of June so can go back to my part time situation, but this week has been ROUGH.
It has been a long long month for that matter too. I'm tired and exhausted and feeling broke. All of that drains me of good efforts to stay positive and energetic.
Yesterday I got off early--thanks to a coworker that, I believe, could see me struggling. I came home and made cookies. Do you know the last time I made cookies on a weekday during the light of day? Its been a LONG time, I assure you. Baking is enjoyable to me. Notice, however, baking and cooking are not the same thing.
I made a cute "sleeve" of cookies to a swim friend who after a long year of working out some things for himself received a mission call this week. I am SO proud of him. I adore their family and think he is a great kid. This mission call coming was just a sweet pit stop in a long hard road he has traveled for a year or so. Knowing he is worthy to go and ready to serve is inspiring.
But while I was there dropping that off to him, I realized how much I miss the friends I have made as a school volunteer. This just-called-missionary's mom being one of the best. Working full time has really cut in on my ability to see people and visit and catch up with them. My time is a real fragile things anymore and I miss having the freedom to do what I want when I want to do it.
But the selfish portion of that explanation aside, I do miss the mental health I feel when I have had friends to talk with. There really is an element of therapy I gain from the friends I have had over the years as we experience similar issues with our families, kids, careers, callings at church, etc. Genius Golfer is great, but he's been too busy to do much talking--which was too little to begin with. I identified the feeling of being alone in a world of people as I saw my dear friend and her family last night.
Perhaps the answer here is a nap, and a coming vacation. The change of scenery will be nice. And I'm looking froward to getting back to my regular 9-3 schedule once Ella comes to work on the 9th. Or maybe someday soon after that date, as I will still have training to do with her. But the point is the same. Getting back to an "early-out" schedule every day will help my attitude about work.
I saw this past month, particularly, that I was missing the crossroads of the day with The Boy by being stuck at work. I feel him drawing away--as tends to happen a this age--but I have no power to alter that shift when I'm not at home when he is. And I worry about what else I am missing in his life by being at work.
Again, here's hoping for a nap, and a vacation, and a schedule change. But all of that will take time, and that isn't something I have an ample excess of right now.
It has been a long long month for that matter too. I'm tired and exhausted and feeling broke. All of that drains me of good efforts to stay positive and energetic.
Yesterday I got off early--thanks to a coworker that, I believe, could see me struggling. I came home and made cookies. Do you know the last time I made cookies on a weekday during the light of day? Its been a LONG time, I assure you. Baking is enjoyable to me. Notice, however, baking and cooking are not the same thing.
I made a cute "sleeve" of cookies to a swim friend who after a long year of working out some things for himself received a mission call this week. I am SO proud of him. I adore their family and think he is a great kid. This mission call coming was just a sweet pit stop in a long hard road he has traveled for a year or so. Knowing he is worthy to go and ready to serve is inspiring.
But while I was there dropping that off to him, I realized how much I miss the friends I have made as a school volunteer. This just-called-missionary's mom being one of the best. Working full time has really cut in on my ability to see people and visit and catch up with them. My time is a real fragile things anymore and I miss having the freedom to do what I want when I want to do it.
But the selfish portion of that explanation aside, I do miss the mental health I feel when I have had friends to talk with. There really is an element of therapy I gain from the friends I have had over the years as we experience similar issues with our families, kids, careers, callings at church, etc. Genius Golfer is great, but he's been too busy to do much talking--which was too little to begin with. I identified the feeling of being alone in a world of people as I saw my dear friend and her family last night.
Perhaps the answer here is a nap, and a coming vacation. The change of scenery will be nice. And I'm looking froward to getting back to my regular 9-3 schedule once Ella comes to work on the 9th. Or maybe someday soon after that date, as I will still have training to do with her. But the point is the same. Getting back to an "early-out" schedule every day will help my attitude about work.
I saw this past month, particularly, that I was missing the crossroads of the day with The Boy by being stuck at work. I feel him drawing away--as tends to happen a this age--but I have no power to alter that shift when I'm not at home when he is. And I worry about what else I am missing in his life by being at work.
Again, here's hoping for a nap, and a vacation, and a schedule change. But all of that will take time, and that isn't something I have an ample excess of right now.
Monday, May 12, 2014
I've Reached "The Point"
I've been working at a paying job from more than a year now. My schedule is supposed to be 9-3 Monday through Friday. So far that hasn't really happened. In fact, lately I have been closer to 9-6 each day.
Today, I reached the point:
The point where I realized I really don't WANT to work every day.
The point where I recognize the advantages of being home with my fmaily in time to make a dinner that (most) everyone will eat.
The point where I have some down time to read or study or craft or whatever else I want to to that is just for me.
The point where I realize that I am missing out of "real" life because I am too busy with work life.
The point I resent my coworkers for taking advantage of a nice boss and who put the rest of us in a tight spot.
The point I wish anther office girl was hired already and trained so that I can go home when I am supposed to.
The point where I know what is happening in the world outside my cubicle and the warehouse.
I know this sounds like I'm being a selfish brat. Maybe I am, because I have hit that point in my work life. I'm tired but too guilty to take advantage of my employer. Thought, today I did take my coworker up on her offer to stay late so Ican could go home and have an attitude adjustment.
Guess I needed that.
Today, I reached the point:
The point where I realized I really don't WANT to work every day.
The point where I recognize the advantages of being home with my fmaily in time to make a dinner that (most) everyone will eat.
The point where I have some down time to read or study or craft or whatever else I want to to that is just for me.
The point where I realize that I am missing out of "real" life because I am too busy with work life.
The point I resent my coworkers for taking advantage of a nice boss and who put the rest of us in a tight spot.
The point I wish anther office girl was hired already and trained so that I can go home when I am supposed to.
The point where I know what is happening in the world outside my cubicle and the warehouse.
I know this sounds like I'm being a selfish brat. Maybe I am, because I have hit that point in my work life. I'm tired but too guilty to take advantage of my employer. Thought, today I did take my coworker up on her offer to stay late so Ican could go home and have an attitude adjustment.
Guess I needed that.
Monday, March 31, 2014
Well, That was That
My introductions to the hospice directors went just fine last week. It was actually much less pressure than I thought. I met some lovely folks whom I talked to several times a week. Now I have a face to put with that voice and name.
Scott, my boss, kept saying that these people already love me so this is just to introduce a fact for them to put with my name too. I'm not sure about the "love" bit but I'm happy if they trust me, and in turn our company.
Scott, my boss, kept saying that these people already love me so this is just to introduce a fact for them to put with my name too. I'm not sure about the "love" bit but I'm happy if they trust me, and in turn our company.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Dog & Pony Show
Today I have an assignment at work that's going to take me into the office is of the many hospice companies we work with. It's an effort to introduce me to the heads of the hospice groups so they know that our office manager is leaving next week and that I am a contact in our office for them.
I suppose I should be grateful for the promotion and raise that comes with this. But to be honest I'm not sure yet. This is not how I imagined my life would be at this stage.
Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for a job I like, with people I enjoy, doing something that helps others. It's just not what I had originally planned for myself when I started my journey as a mom.
And to be completely honest, the idea of putting on a show or at least putting on a good face in person to people I talk to everyday on the phone, it's a little stressful.But I'm putting on a hopeful face and taking a little more courage than I actually have and I'm going to trust the Lord in a lot of things today.
Hopefully this will be great. Wish me luck.
Friday, March 21, 2014
I'll Take That As A Compliment
Earlier this week, something happened at work and one of the guys--frustrated at what had happened--made a comment about one of our fellow co-workers. In an effort to offer comic relief to the pressurized situation, I chuckled and said "I wonder what you guys say about me after I go home."
Another co-worker piped in and said, "Oh, you are like one of the guys! We don't have anything bad to say about you." Then, hearing himself, he tried to back-pedal and apologize (for making it sound like I was less feminine or whatever he was worried it sounded like). I laughed and told him that I was comfortable with that classification.
As a girl growing up, I was always more comfortable with my guy friends. They carried less baggage and there was certainly less drama than the girl friends had. I wasn't ever a girly girl either, so that was another "one of the guys" justifications.
I was genuinely complimented by his comment. I have been there nearly a year, and feel very comfortable at work--where I generally am the only woman 80% of the time. That is just fine with me.
There are certainly worse things he could have said about me. I'll take that one.
Another co-worker piped in and said, "Oh, you are like one of the guys! We don't have anything bad to say about you." Then, hearing himself, he tried to back-pedal and apologize (for making it sound like I was less feminine or whatever he was worried it sounded like). I laughed and told him that I was comfortable with that classification.
As a girl growing up, I was always more comfortable with my guy friends. They carried less baggage and there was certainly less drama than the girl friends had. I wasn't ever a girly girl either, so that was another "one of the guys" justifications.
I was genuinely complimented by his comment. I have been there nearly a year, and feel very comfortable at work--where I generally am the only woman 80% of the time. That is just fine with me.
There are certainly worse things he could have said about me. I'll take that one.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Another Success...With A Lot of Trying
Last night I got to go see our local high school's production of "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying". It is a musical, set in the very early 1960s corporate America. While it may not be my favorite musical theater show, it is quite cute and the kids, of course, are simply amazing and talented to an excess.
But the funny thing I noticed last night, drawing a strong contrast to my own high school theatrical experiences, was that the 60s-esque secretarial pool (all the women characters are secretaries in this show) didn't know how to "act sexy" or how to smoke. One character, Hedy LaRue, came the closest to the sexy mark, but she was more an amalgamation of Marilyn Monroe and Betty Boop--so already a cartoon character. The girl that played her was excellent in pulling that off, by the way.
But the other secretaries had a number where their womanly distractions int he work place were to be emphasized and the girls tried really hard but it still looked sillier than sexier. And for that, as a former YW leader, I am glad.
But the biggest chuckle I got was watching them with their cigarette props. I'm sure their drama teacher had to coach them about how to hold the prop and then how to "smoke" it. But there were several who never quite "got it". It was comical. But such a relief.
How nice that our high school kids didn't really know how to hold or smoke a cigarette. We really have come a long way, baby! My high school had a smoking section--for the students! Many kids I trod the board with knew from personal experience how to smoke...and many other things.
It was a cute production, and one that made me grateful that I am working in the business world--though at a MUCH smaller business--in the current day. Sadly, much of what that show portrays is likely very true...both for the way women in the workplace were treated and for the incompetence of both men and managers.
It was a fun night and any time I get to hang out with my friend Amy, especially with comped tickets from the drama teacher, I'll take it!
But the funny thing I noticed last night, drawing a strong contrast to my own high school theatrical experiences, was that the 60s-esque secretarial pool (all the women characters are secretaries in this show) didn't know how to "act sexy" or how to smoke. One character, Hedy LaRue, came the closest to the sexy mark, but she was more an amalgamation of Marilyn Monroe and Betty Boop--so already a cartoon character. The girl that played her was excellent in pulling that off, by the way.
But the other secretaries had a number where their womanly distractions int he work place were to be emphasized and the girls tried really hard but it still looked sillier than sexier. And for that, as a former YW leader, I am glad.
But the biggest chuckle I got was watching them with their cigarette props. I'm sure their drama teacher had to coach them about how to hold the prop and then how to "smoke" it. But there were several who never quite "got it". It was comical. But such a relief.
How nice that our high school kids didn't really know how to hold or smoke a cigarette. We really have come a long way, baby! My high school had a smoking section--for the students! Many kids I trod the board with knew from personal experience how to smoke...and many other things.
It was a cute production, and one that made me grateful that I am working in the business world--though at a MUCH smaller business--in the current day. Sadly, much of what that show portrays is likely very true...both for the way women in the workplace were treated and for the incompetence of both men and managers.
It was a fun night and any time I get to hang out with my friend Amy, especially with comped tickets from the drama teacher, I'll take it!
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Sometimes WHO is More Important Than WHAT
Thsu week at work I've figured out I really enjoy my co-workers. They make me crazy--to be sure--but they are also really good people. Perfect? No. But good people tryignto do good things and help each one of us along the way.
I don't know why this came as a revelation this week. Nothing major happened. But last Wednesday night our boss took us to the movies (with spouses/dates) to celebrate the business turning 15 years old. This Wednesday we had a team meeting to talk about our business goals and the owner's 5 year plans for all the businesses. We are all interrelated and when one group succeeds we all do.
While I believe the work I do is impactful--particularly to the patients we serve and their families--I really enjoy working with these folks.
That is just a nice thing to finally figure out.
I don't know why this came as a revelation this week. Nothing major happened. But last Wednesday night our boss took us to the movies (with spouses/dates) to celebrate the business turning 15 years old. This Wednesday we had a team meeting to talk about our business goals and the owner's 5 year plans for all the businesses. We are all interrelated and when one group succeeds we all do.
While I believe the work I do is impactful--particularly to the patients we serve and their families--I really enjoy working with these folks.
That is just a nice thing to finally figure out.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Celebration at Work
Today is the 15th anniversary of the inception of the company I work for--so we celebrated. Big Boss remembered the date sometime last week, and thought that at 15 years we ought to do something to commemorate it.
He is taking all of us (plus a date) tot he local $3 movie to see the new Thor movie. I haven't seen it so I think that sounds fun. Genius Golfer thinks it sounds more fun than going to the Young Men's activity tonight at church.
I hope it will be a good team-building activity. We've had a couple new drivers hired recently as well as an afternoon office girl (whom I have been training for the past week and a half). Sometimes getting to see everyone you work with in a social setting helps build rapport in the workplace.
At least, I hope this will encourage each team member to work fro the next 15 years of success.
He is taking all of us (plus a date) tot he local $3 movie to see the new Thor movie. I haven't seen it so I think that sounds fun. Genius Golfer thinks it sounds more fun than going to the Young Men's activity tonight at church.
I hope it will be a good team-building activity. We've had a couple new drivers hired recently as well as an afternoon office girl (whom I have been training for the past week and a half). Sometimes getting to see everyone you work with in a social setting helps build rapport in the workplace.
At least, I hope this will encourage each team member to work fro the next 15 years of success.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Never a Dull Moment
I have been incredibly haphazard in my writing since mid-December. A crazy schedule isn't much of an excuse, but it is mine. I thought once the holidays were behind us thing would calm down. It shows you what a noob I am in the workforce.
We had two drivers at work give notice within two days of each other--and neither one of them actually finished their "two weeks notice". The boss at work was interviewing as soon as he got their notices, but the interviews have been on going and so far as I know only one guy has been hired. So today--due to our one remaining driver's class schedule--we have no driver at work so our general manager will have to take over. Because he usually covers the office and phone in the afternoon so I can get home shortly after The Boy is out of school, I have opted to help the team out by staying later than I normally do, allowing him to cover the others' jobs that otherwise wouldn't get done.
Team players are few and far between it would seem. That is disappointing, and it makes me angry.
Maybe I have limited work experiences, but I haven't ever been fired from a job, and the only times I have left was because I was leaving to go to college--from my high school job. My manager there knew that was my plan when she hired me.
In college I worked at the local mall until I found something on-campus and I worked both jobs for a little while until they got my replacement trained at the mall. I left the on-campus job when I began student teaching, which they knew about from the "git go". And my only "real" job after graduation (until this one now) was a contracted position in a dental lab. I finished my contract--even after a premature baby arrived 5 weeks ahead of schedule and I had to leave her with my sister in law (I was pumping breast milk while I worked 4x10/hr weeks) the first three weeks of her life. But I had the integrity to finish my promised commitment.
That is old fashioned, I suppose. But that is how I roll.
After watching my neighbor's kid--that I got hired as a driver--give leave, then not work much of that 2 weeks because he was sick and then just leave with 4 days left in his notice period when we could have REALLY used his help, I'm never going to vouch for another young adult--or anyone else for that matter--again. It's sad.
I sure hope these new guys are really prepared to work. There is a lot of satisfaction when the work we do helps a patient feel comfortable enough to pass away. The family knows we have provided whatever we can to help their loved one and the care givers. But it takes a different dedication I guess than everyone has.
That must mean those of us at work are weird. I know that sometimes weird is good.
We had two drivers at work give notice within two days of each other--and neither one of them actually finished their "two weeks notice". The boss at work was interviewing as soon as he got their notices, but the interviews have been on going and so far as I know only one guy has been hired. So today--due to our one remaining driver's class schedule--we have no driver at work so our general manager will have to take over. Because he usually covers the office and phone in the afternoon so I can get home shortly after The Boy is out of school, I have opted to help the team out by staying later than I normally do, allowing him to cover the others' jobs that otherwise wouldn't get done.
Team players are few and far between it would seem. That is disappointing, and it makes me angry.
Maybe I have limited work experiences, but I haven't ever been fired from a job, and the only times I have left was because I was leaving to go to college--from my high school job. My manager there knew that was my plan when she hired me.
In college I worked at the local mall until I found something on-campus and I worked both jobs for a little while until they got my replacement trained at the mall. I left the on-campus job when I began student teaching, which they knew about from the "git go". And my only "real" job after graduation (until this one now) was a contracted position in a dental lab. I finished my contract--even after a premature baby arrived 5 weeks ahead of schedule and I had to leave her with my sister in law (I was pumping breast milk while I worked 4x10/hr weeks) the first three weeks of her life. But I had the integrity to finish my promised commitment.
That is old fashioned, I suppose. But that is how I roll.
After watching my neighbor's kid--that I got hired as a driver--give leave, then not work much of that 2 weeks because he was sick and then just leave with 4 days left in his notice period when we could have REALLY used his help, I'm never going to vouch for another young adult--or anyone else for that matter--again. It's sad.
I sure hope these new guys are really prepared to work. There is a lot of satisfaction when the work we do helps a patient feel comfortable enough to pass away. The family knows we have provided whatever we can to help their loved one and the care givers. But it takes a different dedication I guess than everyone has.
That must mean those of us at work are weird. I know that sometimes weird is good.
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Uselss...That Comes to Mind
Yesterday I had no voice. I mean I could whisper, but no one could hear me unless they were right next to me. Makes it a little hard to answer the phone at work. Oh, and that is my job.
I had a hard time stopping myself from trying to answer the phones, even though my coworkers were being great about it. But a whispering voice on the phone isn't a great start when the call is made by some little old husband who can't hear himself. A comedy of errors, indeed.
Luckily several items came in that need embroidery. Luckily, that is also my job. And luckily, today I'll be a little more useFUL as I get that done and not try to answer the phone.
There must be some magical solution to laryngitis. I just haven't found the exact answer on Goggle yet. But there is still time. But my fingers are still crossed.
I had a hard time stopping myself from trying to answer the phones, even though my coworkers were being great about it. But a whispering voice on the phone isn't a great start when the call is made by some little old husband who can't hear himself. A comedy of errors, indeed.
Luckily several items came in that need embroidery. Luckily, that is also my job. And luckily, today I'll be a little more useFUL as I get that done and not try to answer the phone.
There must be some magical solution to laryngitis. I just haven't found the exact answer on Goggle yet. But there is still time. But my fingers are still crossed.
Friday, November 22, 2013
That Was Nice to Hear
On Monday, after Genius Golfer left for his new job, and The Boy had left for school, I headed out to work too. GG and I had talked about me needing to be home in the afternoon so The Boy wasn't just left home alone.
I know, he is 16 and a half, and fairly responsible. But is is 16 and a half. And I'm his mom.
So at some point during the day, I poked my head into my boss' office and ask if he had a minute. Sure, he said in his usual friendly way. I told him that GG started a job that morning and that I know it was short notice but I'd really need to go to the 9am-3pm schedule we talked about weeks before. He said that he'd be happy to make that happen, and told me that as soon as 3 PM comes along just to go home.
I was grateful for the understanding that I'm a mom first and then an employee. I'm not sure I have ever worked where that was the case. But it was nice. And at 3 PM I was clocking out and heading home to check on The Boy.
Yesterday my boss caught me in a moment when things were slow and told me that when I came into to talk with him on Monday he thought I was going to tell him I quit. He said he was freaking out on the inside.
I reassured him and told him that we have a lot of making up to do financially and that even if that were done quickly, I've got two missions and a college tuition yet to pay for, so he's stuck with me for a while.
It's nice to feel needed, and valued at work. I know I am lucky to have that. It hasn't always been that way.
I know, he is 16 and a half, and fairly responsible. But is is 16 and a half. And I'm his mom.
So at some point during the day, I poked my head into my boss' office and ask if he had a minute. Sure, he said in his usual friendly way. I told him that GG started a job that morning and that I know it was short notice but I'd really need to go to the 9am-3pm schedule we talked about weeks before. He said that he'd be happy to make that happen, and told me that as soon as 3 PM comes along just to go home.
I was grateful for the understanding that I'm a mom first and then an employee. I'm not sure I have ever worked where that was the case. But it was nice. And at 3 PM I was clocking out and heading home to check on The Boy.
Yesterday my boss caught me in a moment when things were slow and told me that when I came into to talk with him on Monday he thought I was going to tell him I quit. He said he was freaking out on the inside.
I reassured him and told him that we have a lot of making up to do financially and that even if that were done quickly, I've got two missions and a college tuition yet to pay for, so he's stuck with me for a while.
It's nice to feel needed, and valued at work. I know I am lucky to have that. It hasn't always been that way.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Oh! That Explains It
Yesterday at work, my computer was being very temperamental. It would boot up then I'd try to get into a program--any program-- and almost as quickly the computer would kick me off and shut down the program. This went on all day. It was a nearly useless day at work for me, except I did several projects that were more manual labor than computer driven projects. I steam cleaned the men's restroom, for example.
The funny part was that when I first finally got this machine to boot up, this is what was waiting for me:
Afternoon Driver, Alec, who is a UVU student, but a UofU fan, thought this would be a funny prank. And since he had access to my computer over the weekend--he was on call--he made the Ute's logo my screen caver.
It is VERY harsh to look at as a BYU fan, and even a USU parent. The red is just glaring. It hurts me eyes, and my heart.
As the day progressed and I still couldn't get on my machine, I told Alec that he infected it with some sort of Utes virus and that I was quite put out. He just laughed and thought he was so funny!
Meanwhile, I am trying to concoct a retaliatory plan and scheme to get him back for this. Oh, and hope that my computer will work today.
The funny part was that when I first finally got this machine to boot up, this is what was waiting for me:
Afternoon Driver, Alec, who is a UVU student, but a UofU fan, thought this would be a funny prank. And since he had access to my computer over the weekend--he was on call--he made the Ute's logo my screen caver.
It is VERY harsh to look at as a BYU fan, and even a USU parent. The red is just glaring. It hurts me eyes, and my heart.
As the day progressed and I still couldn't get on my machine, I told Alec that he infected it with some sort of Utes virus and that I was quite put out. He just laughed and thought he was so funny!
Meanwhile, I am trying to concoct a retaliatory plan and scheme to get him back for this. Oh, and hope that my computer will work today.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
How Far Can You Stretch?
This is the question I have been asking myself , rather a lot lately. I feel like I need to do what it takes at work--considering Office Manager's family situation right now. I feel like I need to put in more effort at home for The Boy because I do feel guilt about being at work when he gets home--though he has told me that he is "fine, mom". I feel like I need to do whatever I can to support and defend Genius Golfer so he feels like he can do his work and make it successful. I feel like The Girl needs more emotional support now that midterms are here and the novelty has worn off at school. I feel like I need to "finish strong" with my little primary class at church because they change classes the first Sunday of the new year and we only have them for a few more weeks. And I feel the need to up my enthusiasm about visiting teaching because 1) my partner is now in the stake RS presidency and 2) I had a very good lesson taught (by my nephew) in sacrament meeting Sunday about HT/VT being like missionary work to those who have already been baptized.
That being said, I also got word yesterday that I will likely be training next week to work in the Big Boss' scrub stores as the daytime ladies need me. And one of those times apparently is the one day off I asked for in December to see the Festival of Trees this year. That might require some negotiating. But I can't blame ShopGirl#2, since her missionary son is coming home from Canada that week and she wants to be home with him and their family.
I think my attitude is flagging a bit because I'm tired and there are days (more often lately) when I just don't want to be working at all. That kind of resentment isn't healthy, I know. This is my new reality. I just need to face it and be brave.
In the meantime, I'm taking my vitamins and trying to get enough sleep (is there such a thing?) and attempting to keep from medicating myself with donuts and ice cream. And THAT may be the hardest bit of this whole deal.
That being said, I also got word yesterday that I will likely be training next week to work in the Big Boss' scrub stores as the daytime ladies need me. And one of those times apparently is the one day off I asked for in December to see the Festival of Trees this year. That might require some negotiating. But I can't blame ShopGirl#2, since her missionary son is coming home from Canada that week and she wants to be home with him and their family.
I think my attitude is flagging a bit because I'm tired and there are days (more often lately) when I just don't want to be working at all. That kind of resentment isn't healthy, I know. This is my new reality. I just need to face it and be brave.
In the meantime, I'm taking my vitamins and trying to get enough sleep (is there such a thing?) and attempting to keep from medicating myself with donuts and ice cream. And THAT may be the hardest bit of this whole deal.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Retraction, But Only Just
Last week I wrote about the perceived selfishness of one of my coworker in light of another' coworker's family tragedy. as commonly happens, my perception was prematurely drawn. Apparently Morning Driver thought he was already working "on-call" this week, so he didn't see the need to take it from Office Manager--because he didn't think OM had it.
That said, I apologize for jumping to conclusions about him. But I still feel strongly that as colleagues we need to step in to help one another. who knows when it will be our turn to suffer the tragedy, and we'd be in a place to sincerely appreciate the help of others.
This is a common exercise with me, isn't it? Jumping to conclusions. It is a hard habit to break, and often times if has saved me from regret and heartache. I guess you do the best you can and apologize when needed, like to day.
This "being human" thing isn't all its cracked up to be, is it?
That said, I apologize for jumping to conclusions about him. But I still feel strongly that as colleagues we need to step in to help one another. who knows when it will be our turn to suffer the tragedy, and we'd be in a place to sincerely appreciate the help of others.
This is a common exercise with me, isn't it? Jumping to conclusions. It is a hard habit to break, and often times if has saved me from regret and heartache. I guess you do the best you can and apologize when needed, like to day.
This "being human" thing isn't all its cracked up to be, is it?
Friday, November 8, 2013
Showing Your True Colors
I'm not talking about "bleeding True BYU Cougar Blue" or "Utah red,
through and through". I'm talking about how you behave showing you who
you really are.
We had a terrible event happen at work this week. Our office manager's wife lost their unborn baby at about 6 months along. As he should, he left work immediately and went to be by her side as she had to deliver a baby she could never bring home with her. We were all heart broken about it. This little momma had struggled through this entire pregnancy, and we were feeling (like she likely did) that she had been preggers forever. But with the office manager/all round good guy/answer man out for the next few days--at the least, but most likely a week--we all knew that we'd have to step it up to cover for him. That is what small companies do; that is what friends do for each other.
That is, all but one of our drivers. our office manager was the "on-call" guy this week. When the owner/big boss asked Morning Driver if he would cover the on-call stuff for the rest of Office Manager's week, Morning Driver said no.
Whoa. That took some nerve, considering this guy had just gotten 10 days OFF all around Christmas. And it was Office Manager who approved that for him. Whoa.
I guess I was raised differently. I was taught that when someone needs help, you jump in. If you had fun plans, you change them--helping another human being is more important than fun. And people matter more than plans. Being kind doesn't happen according to any schedule.
I definitely know I have covenanted with God to do things differently. When I was baptized, I made a promise to "mourn with those that mourn and comfort those that stand in need of comfort." And that means even when it wasn't what you were expecting or when it's convenient.
I realize that the Lord doesn't specifically mention what you should do to show gratitude "if you get (a lot of) time off at Christmas, causing your co-workers to not get time off to cover for you", but I'm fairly certain He'd be disappointed with Morning Driver's reaction. I was and worse. But I'm no where nearly as compassionate as the Savior.
The really crazy part here, at least as I see it, is this Morning Driver guy spends a lot of energy worrying about his time card hours, his overtime pay, his little reimbursements getting covered. But never once looks at things from anyone else's point of view. Even on good days.
And just because you announce you're getting off early to go the temple, doesn't mean you are any more righteous than the rest of us. In fact, after your behavior this week, your actions are yelling so loud I can't hear your words anyway.
Thanks for letting me rant about this. It's weighted heavily on my heart for two days. And it is just another reason this week has just been sad.
We had a terrible event happen at work this week. Our office manager's wife lost their unborn baby at about 6 months along. As he should, he left work immediately and went to be by her side as she had to deliver a baby she could never bring home with her. We were all heart broken about it. This little momma had struggled through this entire pregnancy, and we were feeling (like she likely did) that she had been preggers forever. But with the office manager/all round good guy/answer man out for the next few days--at the least, but most likely a week--we all knew that we'd have to step it up to cover for him. That is what small companies do; that is what friends do for each other.
That is, all but one of our drivers. our office manager was the "on-call" guy this week. When the owner/big boss asked Morning Driver if he would cover the on-call stuff for the rest of Office Manager's week, Morning Driver said no.
Whoa. That took some nerve, considering this guy had just gotten 10 days OFF all around Christmas. And it was Office Manager who approved that for him. Whoa.
I guess I was raised differently. I was taught that when someone needs help, you jump in. If you had fun plans, you change them--helping another human being is more important than fun. And people matter more than plans. Being kind doesn't happen according to any schedule.
I definitely know I have covenanted with God to do things differently. When I was baptized, I made a promise to "mourn with those that mourn and comfort those that stand in need of comfort." And that means even when it wasn't what you were expecting or when it's convenient.
I realize that the Lord doesn't specifically mention what you should do to show gratitude "if you get (a lot of) time off at Christmas, causing your co-workers to not get time off to cover for you", but I'm fairly certain He'd be disappointed with Morning Driver's reaction. I was and worse. But I'm no where nearly as compassionate as the Savior.
The really crazy part here, at least as I see it, is this Morning Driver guy spends a lot of energy worrying about his time card hours, his overtime pay, his little reimbursements getting covered. But never once looks at things from anyone else's point of view. Even on good days.
And just because you announce you're getting off early to go the temple, doesn't mean you are any more righteous than the rest of us. In fact, after your behavior this week, your actions are yelling so loud I can't hear your words anyway.
Thanks for letting me rant about this. It's weighted heavily on my heart for two days. And it is just another reason this week has just been sad.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
So Much to Do, So Little Time
At work this week, I have close to 200 items to embroider. It makes my eyes tired thinking about the piles and boxes waiting for me. Consequently, I am headed in to work this morning (and likely tomorrow) earlier than usual. Consequently, this post will be rather short.
Machine embroidery--as I have learned it--is actually quite enjoyable. I especially like it when I can put my earbuds in and listen to a book on my iPod and NOT have to answer the phones at work. Stopping to shift gears at the ring of the phone is what gets me to the point that I make mistakes. Not that I am perfect, I never claimed that, but my concentration gets broken and I lose track of what step I'm on or what, exactly, I'm doing. That's why I like to tune-out with my iPod. It helps keep me focused.
As a word of suggestion, however. Should you ever need shirts embroidered with your company's logo or your name--please do this embroiderer a favor: Chose a scrub top or something that doesn't stretch, and especially one that isn't silky AND stretches. Yikes! Those give me headaches.
I'm off to face the threads of my future today! Wish me luck--and no stretchy shirts!
Machine embroidery--as I have learned it--is actually quite enjoyable. I especially like it when I can put my earbuds in and listen to a book on my iPod and NOT have to answer the phones at work. Stopping to shift gears at the ring of the phone is what gets me to the point that I make mistakes. Not that I am perfect, I never claimed that, but my concentration gets broken and I lose track of what step I'm on or what, exactly, I'm doing. That's why I like to tune-out with my iPod. It helps keep me focused.
As a word of suggestion, however. Should you ever need shirts embroidered with your company's logo or your name--please do this embroiderer a favor: Chose a scrub top or something that doesn't stretch, and especially one that isn't silky AND stretches. Yikes! Those give me headaches.
I'm off to face the threads of my future today! Wish me luck--and no stretchy shirts!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
